Avalanche Forecast

Strong winds, especially on the east side of White Pass may have formed reactive wind slabs on south facing slopes. Avalanche danger may increase on solar slopes when the sun is out.

Last weekend, a few size 2 wet loose avalanches were reported on steep, south-facing slopes in the alpine.

Consider submitting to the Mountain Information Network if you have been in the backcountry.

Wind has redistributed recent snow, forming pressed surfaces and wind slabs in open terrain while leaving 15-30 cm of soft snow in sheltered areas. Wind slabs may be more predominant on the east side of White Pass where the wind hit harder. A breakable melt-freeze crust covers most solar slopes.

A buried surface hoar or crust layer, 40 to 60 cm deep, is variable in distribution and has produced some test results but no recent avalanches. Similarly, a December crust with facets, 100 to 150 cm deep on all aspects up to 1750 m, has shown no recent activity or significant test results.

Snow depth ranges from 100 cm at highway elevations to over 300 cm in the alpine.

Monday Night

Partly cloudy with some clear periods. 20 to 30 km/h north ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C. Freezing level valley bottom.

Tuesday

Mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -4 °C. Freezing level 1100 m.

Wednesday

Mix of sun and cloud. 15 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -7 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.

Thursday

Mix of sun and cloud. 25 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -5 °C. Freezing level 1000 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• Carefully evaluate big and steep terrain features before committing to them.
• Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where even small avalanches may have severe consequences.