Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Expect a balmy day if you get up above the inversion. Sun and warm temperatures may soften snow surfaces on steep slopes in direct sun. Small loose wet avalanches may become possible on these slopes, so consider the potential and consequences before venturing into steeper terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Unseasonably warm temperatures and sun should soften steep slopes that face Southeast through Southwest in the middle of the day. This could make for nice riding if you time it right. These same slopes may become too soft, and create potential for rollerballs, small wet loose avalanches, and other types of snow shed. Things like glide avalanches, and small chunks of cornice could also release with the elevated temperatures. A few signs that slopes are becoming 'over ripe' are rollerballs, and wet punchy snow. If you find yourself sinking  deeply into moist, or manky snow then change aspects or angles. 

    Although limited in time of day, and a narrow window of slope aspect, consider these hazards in your travel plan. If planning to head into consequential terrain, then weigh the chances with the consequences of getting caught or hit. Slides could be triggered or in some cases might release naturally.

    Example small wet loose avalanches.

    Photo: Steve Gately

Avalanche Discussion

Sunday should be even warmer than Saturday was. An inversion may keep temperatures cooler and clouds hanging around near and below pass level. 

The last snowfall was Thursday when 1-2" of snow accumulated. Around 5,000ft, there's roughly 3 feet snow on the ground. The entire snowpack was moist or previously wet, with crusts at the surface, down 6", and in the middle of the snowpack. Reports from Saturday were that the riding conditions have been improving as the surface crusts either soften with daytime warming, or have been breaking down (sublimating).

On Dec 9-10th, two feet of snow fell and was then capped by light rain up to at least 6000ft.  Snow surfaces cooled to form the breakable crust that you will now find on the surface.

Stevens Pass Ski Area is now open. Check uphill policies HERE.

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