East Slopes North

The avalanche danger is Low, but stay alert to changing conditions. The wind may create isolated and shallow slabs in alpine terrain by late afternoon. Decent, although variable riding can be found in shaded and sheltered terrain. 

An inch or two of recent snow fell Sunday, and winds were light. Winds may pick up a bit on Tuesday afternoon, creating very shallow and isolated drifts in the alpine. For the most part, avalanches are unlikely although you may be able to trigger a slide in very steep terrain. These could be wind slabs in exposed features, or small dry loose outside of wind affected areas. Use caution in very steep, extreme terrain and around terrain traps like cliffs. Here, a small avalanche could result in injury. Be sure to consider unlikely hazards, such as cornices and glide avalanches, both of which are plenty in the zone at the moment.

Recently, observers have reported facets at or near the surface and widespread surface hoar on a crust below treeline. The last reported avalanches on Washington Pass were small wind slabs on the 18th and 19th. In general, the snowpack near and just east of Washington Pass is strong and relatively deep. In the eastern part of the zone, however, you'll find a shallower and possibly weaker snowpack. An observer found a weak snowpack structure in the Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains near Chelan on the 16th. If you travel in the far eastern part of the range, such as the Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains, Twisp River, Eight Mile, and Chewuch drainages, take time to dig in the snow and look for older weak layers.

On the night of January 12th, a major avalanche cycle was brought on by heavy snow and rain. Observers reported many large to very large avalanches, up to D3 in size (big enough to break mature timber and bury cars). Evidence of this avalanche cycle can still be seen in the mountains. 

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.