East Slopes North

Monday will be another quiet day with minimal concerns for avalanches. Expect relatively mild temperatures and cloud cover near Washington Pass. If you're venturing above treeline, take time to assess the snow and avalanche conditions as we have little information from those slopes.

Monday will be another quiet day, as avalanches are generally unlikely and difficult to trigger. Aside from slightly warmer temperatures and some filtered sun and clouds, we don't expect much in the way of weather. There's uncertainty and a lack of information from upper elevation slopes. Be prepared to make your own assessments if you travel above treeline.

Last week, triggering wind slab avalanches had been a concern near and above treeline. Strong east winds drifted snow and formed slabs on Wednesday.  It's now difficult to trigger these avalanches, but good to keep them in mind if you venture into higher elevation terrain. On all but southerly slopes, the surface snow has been weakening. Watch for weak grains (near surface facets and surface hoar) and track where they stick around. At mid to low elevations they may get wet with rain on Tuesday before a shift to snow. More active weather later in the week could further bury any weak layers that persist after Tuesday's weak storm. Much uncertainty still exists with this week's weather forecast.

Observers reported natural wind slab avalanches a week ago, Monday, as intense winds transported snow and loaded exposed slopes. Weak snow surfaces (surface hoar and near-surface facets) were observed prior to a storm (11/30) that delivered about 8 inches of snow.  Observers have identified a snowpack with a favorable hardness profile and good stability in the mid and lower snowpack. The snow depth in the area is generally 3.5ft to 5ft deep. 

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.