Avalanche forecast

East Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

Highlights

In the western portion of the zone, near Washington Pass, avalanches are unlikely. However, Low danger doesn't mean "no danger." Considerations to keep in mind are wind drifted snow at upper elevations and firm slick surfaces and old weak layers of snow both in the lowlands and mountains well east of Washington Pass.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    At upper elevations, slabs formed during strong west winds on the 12-13th at the tail end of a major storm. Cornices grew during the storm and may still loom over slopes. Triggering a wind slab avalanche is now unlikely, but still worth keeping in mind. Pay attention as you transition into wind affected terrain, and look and feel for changes in snow surface texture and hardness. Watch for clues of instability like cracks shooting through the snow. Use caution on slopes with similar features where you see overhanging cornices and wind drifts. Minimize exposure to overhead hazards and stay off of cornices. 

    Example of intense wind loading off a ridgeline.

Avalanche Discussion

Wind and warm temperatures have created less than soft surfaces on a variety of slopes. The last storm brought a layer of warm or wet precipitation before finishing with a cold topping of snow. From January 11th to 13th the major storm delivered snow and some rain to the region. Very large and destructive avalanches ran through entire avalanche paths. The avalanche cycle occurred on the night of the 12th. Observers reported avalanches at least to  D3 in size (big enough to break mature timber and bury cars) including an avalanche that hit a closed portion of Highway 20, below Delancey Ridge. This avalanche ran over 3,000ft and formed debris piles that were 9 feet deep in places. With observations and travel limited by the intensity of the storm, we still have uncertainty, around what's happening at upper elevations.

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.

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