Snoqualmie Pass

Avalanche hazard should continue to be fairly minimal on Friday at Snoqualmie Pass. Take note of how the sunny weather is affecting the snowpack and continue to be prepared for firm snow surfaces that may be hidden under a dusting of recent snow.

Snoqualmie Pass didn’t pick up a whole lot of new snow during the most recent storm, and therefore avalanche hazard will continue to be marginalized on Friday. It should be a nice day, so if you’re planning on heading into the mountains be aware that although the avalanche danger is low, other hazards do exist. The recent dusting of snow adds a few inches to a generally strong snowpack, falling on top of a variety of surfaces, including dry snow, breakable crust, icy slopes, and frozen avalanche debris. These variable surfaces have been driving some messaging about difficult travel conditions the past few days, and rightfully so. On Friday, you should continue to travel with caution, as the recent snow may be just enough to mask some of these firm and icy surfaces. Falling in these areas could potentially lead to a long and dangerous slide. 

As you make your way through the mountains or head into more extreme terrain, take note of how any new snow is being affected by the sunshine and how it has bonded to the old snow surface. Cold new snow on shady slopes could run fast and far on previously firm icy slopes. On sunny slopes, the new snow could be destabilized by solar input, taking on wet snow characteristics. In either case, any potential slide would be small and unlikely, but even a small slide or getting tripped up by variable conditions could be consequential in extreme terrain.

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.