Snoqualmie Pass

Temperatures will be all over the map on Wednesday but don't expect much change in the avalanche hazard because of it. Traveling safely on variable surfaces and around natural hazards will be the biggest challenge you'll face. You may see some softening of the surface on sun-exposed slopes but don't count on it.

Wednesday will be another bright sunny day with calm winds. However, the temperature forecast is a little messy and hard to comprehend. Luckily, it won't affect the avalanche hazard, so you will just need to deal with your personal comfort. Our best advice is to dress in layers and bring a smattering of jackets. 

Once you're comfy and ready to hit the mountains, travel conditions will be the greatest hazards you encounter. Out in the open, surfaces are generally smooth but highly variable. Pockets of softer snow are interspersed with breakable crusts and icy slopes. Numerous observations have indicated that long, uncontrolled slides are possible on slick, firm crusts. Unfortunately, these open areas are the lesser of two evils. In the woods, travel is reportedly worse. Tree bombs, ice blocks, and tracks combine into a frozen coral reef that is difficult to navigate. Then there are the open creeks, random holes, and avalanche debris to climb over or steer around. These will add time and stress to your day, even on a familiar journey.

So what about the snowpack? At the moment, we’re focused on areas of softer snow over the extremely stout 1/10 crust. Reports of widespread surface hoar and near-surface facets continue to pour in. Additionally, observations indicate faceting above and below the 1/10 crust in some areas. None of these are an issue right now unless you find a wind pocket over the 1/10 crust on a far-flung high peak or in a dark corner of the zone. If so, it could break easily or widely given the right terrain. Otherwise, enjoy these weak grains sparkling in the sun, and let's not worry about them until it starts snowing again.