Olympics

You may find different conditions and hazards on Saturday depending on if you are traveling above or below the previous rain line. Be aware of wind-drifted piles of snow where you could trigger an avalanche more easily. If you identify that the snow has slab potential or a weak point of failure, you should avoid slopes 35 degrees and steeper.

Monday’s storm track ended up a little farther to the north, meaning the Olympics certainly didn’t get 20” of new snow as predicted. They did receive a significant amount of precipitation, with NWAC’s weather station at Hurricane Ridge recording well over 2” of water! Moving forward, expect that number to go up a bit higher before precipitation shuts off and temperatures start to cool significantly. This means that the avalanche danger should generally be on a downtrend on Tuesday. However, you shouldn’t overlook the large amount of water we just received, the snowpack may need some time to adjust to the new load and avalanches could still occur. 

One of the better indicators you can use to help determine the danger on Tuesday will be the snow surface. If you find that the surface is firm, avalanche danger could be minimized in that location, whereas if you find that the snow is soft or wet, you will be dealing with more heightened avalanche conditions. If you are able to travel above the previous rain/snow line on Tuesday, be prepared for large amounts of new snow and dangerous avalanche conditions. Avalanche problems at all elevations should be related to the new snow, and snow affected by the wind. You can use small test slopes or hand pits to test the bonding of the new snow to the old snow surface or identify any mid-storm layers that could be a point of failure. As you travel, look for red-flag signs of unstable snow such as whumpfing collapses or shooting cracks. In areas where the wind has been able to drift the snow into deeper piles, you could have larger and more reactive slabs. Common wind drifted features include leeward slopes, at the base of cliffs, or sides of gullies.

2020-21 Forecast Schedule: Avalanche danger ratings will be issued for the Olympics every Friday through Sunday and during mid-week holidays. During the week when the Hurricane Ridge road is closed, forecast information will be updated daily to include expected conditions and relevant travel advice under the No Rating label.  

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.