Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Large avalanches are possible in upper elevation terrain, where Easterly wind has created cohesive slabs over a slick crust. Use caution in areas where even a small slide could cause injury, and near areas that appear likely to be wind loaded. Icy surfaces underneath the new snow can make for slippery conditions on steep slopes.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Skiers have triggered avalanches the past couple of days in wind affected areas, and even a few small naturals were observed in Highlands Bowl on Wednesday. These have run on, or just above the recent slippery crust. Avalanches have been small, although the new snow and wind is adding up and you could find larger slabs the higher you go. Expect to find slabs on south to west to north facing slopes, but you might find them on other aspects as well. Loading from this wind direction is not common, so you may find deposits in unusual locations and further downslope than you might normally look. Likely areas to trigger a slab are on steep slopes right off ridgetop, and in gullies or edges of sub ridges. Expect the snow to feel stiffer, but slabs may be disguised by the recent snow that fell without wind. Avoid consequential slopes if you notice shooting cracks, stiffer snow, or whumphing collapses. 

    (1/27/2021) Long shooting cracks through wind stiffened snow are direct signs of instability.

Avalanche Discussion

Three inches of new snow fell on Tuesday night, and another three may fall overnight into Thursday. You will still notice the old snow layer, especially at lower elevations where a solid or punchy crust was previously at the surface. You may find icy surfaces at upper elevations where wind stripped the snow away, especially on south aspects.  Be wary, as these icy surfaces are potentially dangerous for travel, and they also make a good bed surface for avalanches to slide on. 

On the northern half of the compass you might find a weak layer of snow just under the snowfall that began on Sunday.  These aspects are probably where snow will be loading, and if these weak layers are present slabs may fail easily on the weak layer.  

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.

Regions covered