East Slopes South

You will be able to trigger a large avalanche in wind-drifted snow, or where you find more than 8" of new snow on slopes 35 degrees and steeper. Avalanches will be most likely at upper elevations and closer to the Cascade crest, but cautious travel and conservative decisions will be warranted everywhere.

Avalanches will be the largest and most dangerous near and above treeline, in wind-exposed terrain, and near ridgelines. Look at snow surface texture and feel for stiff snow over weaker snow to identify wind slabs. Watch for cracking in the snow as a warning sign of the danger. Slabs will be growing throughout the night into Thursday morning. Use extra caution in and around terrain traps, where any avalanche could have serious consequences. Use small and inconsequential test slopes and snowpack tests to check how well these slabs are bonding. Avoid wind loaded slopes steeper than 35 degrees if you find signs of instability such as shooting cracks. Wind slabs may rest over the most recent (12/21) crust at upper elevations.

Persistent slab avalanches present in the East Central zone remain a possibility in isolated parts of the East South zone due to a fresh load of snow stressing a weak layer of sugary snow from back in early December. The consequences of triggering avalanches are serious and they could easily bury or kill you. These dangerous and surprising avalanches can catch even the most experienced backcountry travelers. Consider this persistent problem if you find a layer of weak snow just above a thick melt-freeze crust several ft below the surface, above 5,000 ft elevation. These layers are not a concern where you find a stout crust near the surface, such as areas further south and at lower elevations. If you see this weak layer, the best way to stay safe is to avoid the type of terrain where you are most likely to trigger one. Keep your distance from slopes 35 degrees and steeper that are open enough and tall enough to produce large avalanches. Watch for obvious signs of instability like recent avalanches, whumphing collapses, or cracks shooting through the snow.

Snow cover at upper elevations is increasing but remains shallow below treeline and at all elevations further east and away from the Cascade Crest. Typical early season hazards are still in play and you'll likely encounter open creeks and exposed stumps and rocks. 

Check the media gallery for updated photos of Mt Aix, Mt Darland and Pinegrass Ridge taken from White Pass.

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.