East Slopes North

Expect cold temperatures, stagnant weather, and little to no chance for avalanches. Snow surfaces are firm and variable. Be prepared with equipment to prevent an uncontrolled fall on steep frozen slopes. 

Weather and avalanche conditions haven't changed much over the past week in the East North zone. On Saturday, temperature inversions will continue to break down. Daytime high temperatures will be slightly warmer than Friday's, but still cool. It's worth keeping an eye on slopes above you for large cornices. While a falling cornice is unlikely, they are still large and overhung.

With avalanches highly unlikely, travel conditions should be at the top of your list of mountain hazards. Don't expect sun-exposed slopes to soften much. Instead, a firm melt-freeze crust could persist, creating the potential for long, uncontrolled slides. For human-powered travel, it's a good idea to carry crampons (for skis and/or boots) and a self-arrest tool.  Although crusts should be the main surface you encounter, you might find weakening surfaces on shaded slopes. You may encounter other conditions unfriendly to travel, including runnels (from rain) and variable, bumpy snow under the tree canopy.

On Saturday, professionals dug a profile on a south aspect around 6,500ft near Washington Pass and reported that the surface crust was 2-4" thick. Within the top foot of the snowpack, they found a series of crusts with faceted grains sandwiched in between. The middle and lower snowpack was generally strong and well-bonded.