East Slopes Central

Sunday will be another sunny day with warmer temperatures. Watch for roller balls and small wet avalanches on steep, sunny slopes. Be careful not to hit rocks and stumps while traveling in areas of shallow snow cover.

Expect another day of quiet weather. For Sunday, there's a slight chance of wet loose avalanches near the Cascade Crest and in the southern part of the zone, near Cle Elum. We expect sun and warming temperatures in much of the Cascades, but the bulk of this zone will remain cooler. At upper elevations, we've received reports of blowing snow throughout the week, but no recent signs that triggering a wind slab avalanche is possible. Evidence of the wind as well as wet avalanches from Friday can be seen on many slopes. Cornices have grown in the past couple weeks. As always, give them plenty of space and avoid standing on or below them. 

The height of snow varies significantly through the zone with up to 5 feet on the ground above 6,000ft at the Cascade Crest yet very shallow coverage at low elevations and near Highway 97. Expect lots of variability in snowpack structure. On shaded northerly slopes and you may find weak snow in places. Along with shallow snow cover comes the risk of hitting rocks and logs while you're moving on the snow. An impact could result in injury or damage to equipment. In most parts of the zone, this risk may be greater than that of avalanches.

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.