East Slopes South

While avalanches will be unlikely on Wednesday, very steep slopes in direct sun may experience some rollerballs or small wet avalanches. The cold temperatures will mostly limit their size and extent. Difficult travel on icy slopes, creek holes, exposed rocks, and thin snow cover at low elevations will likely be the most significant hazard you face in the mountains.

This storm certainly fell short of our hopes for a refresh to the dwindling snowpack. While areas close to the Cascade crest picked up 1-2 inches of snow, most of the east south zone saw little to no new snow. A trace of snow may fall overnight, tapering off on Wednesday morning, which will be a chilly day with highs in the mid to low 20s and partly cloudy skies. The cold temperatures will likely keep surfaces cool enough to prevent significant wet loose avalanche activity. However, very steep rocky terrain in direct sun may shed a few rollerballs or small wet loose avalanches. 

Most of the East South Zone suffers from inconsistent and low snow cover, and low elevation access is becoming increasingly challenging. Obstacles may get covered up by this new snow and lurk just below the surface and hidden from view. Travel cautiously, especially at lower elevations, to avoid impacts with rocks or stumps, and falls into holes. Expect variable surface conditions and challenging travel. However, the snowpack does increase as you gain elevation, especially on shady northern aspects. For more information on how our current snowpack compares to seasonal averages, check out the most recent Climatological Snow Depth Report.