East Slopes South

Avalanche hazard is generally safe in East South. You may encounter tiny slabs of wind drifted snow on downwind slopes at upper elevations. Lower elevations lack sufficient snow coverage for avalanche hazard to exist at this time.

Tuesday's storm overproduced across the forecast region. The Bumping Ridge weather station reported 1.4 inches of precipitation by the end of the day. Unfortunately, it's unlikely any of this precip fell as snow in East South. Since then, the zone has been dusted with a paltry amount of snow at upper elevations near the Cascade Crest, and Thursday will be much the same. You may be able to find a very isolated pocket of wind drifted snow that is unstable. Nothing will be remotely big enough to bury you, but something could catch you off guard and sweep your feet out from under you. Surfaces will also likely be hard and slick on all aspects in the morning before having time to soften. If you are recreating in extreme terrain with hazards below, take a moment to evaluate what the consequences would be from an uncontrolled fall before diving in.

Other non-avalanche hazards abound. The zone is riddled with open creeks, random holes, exposed logs, and rocks. Lower elevations and southerly aspects are especially grim. Take your time as you travel around and plan for difficult mountain access.

Last week’s rainstorms decimated the East South snowpack. You can still find rideable snow at mid and upper elevations. Below 5,000 ft, snow coverage is too limited for avalanche danger at this time—so we’re issuing a No Rating for lower elevations.