East Slopes South

Isolated areas on very steep sun-exposed terrain with rocks and cliffs may have small wet avalanches. But in most places, avalanches will be unlikely. Expect challenging travel conditions, icy conditions, and low snow cover on southern aspects below treeline. 

The freezing levels are forecasted to continue into another period of rapid fluctuation along with some light precipitation.  Cold temperatures will likely refreeze snow surfaces overnight on Thursday before temperatures begin a steady uphill march, topping out around 8000ft by Friday evening. 

Melt-freeze crusts on the surface and a significant and prolonged thaw and refreeze cycle since MLK weekend give us confidence that the snowpack can handle the spring-like temperatures forecasted for Friday. However, there may be isolated wet loose avalanches in very steep terrain. Sun may create a heightened hazard of wet avalanches on steep southern aspects. If you are sinking past your calves in unconsolidated wet snow, you may want to stick to less consequential terrain. In the highest elevations near the Cascade Crest, small wind slabs may be lingering near ridges from light snow and strong winds on Thursday. While avalanches are unlikely, it is still important to observe surface and snowpack conditions as you travel. Always be on the lookout for red flag signs of instability such as recent avalanches and shooting cracks. You should also expect challenging travel conditions, including low snow coverage and various icy surfaces with both supportable and breakable crusts.