Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

You can trigger wind slab avalanches on steep slopes on Wednesday.  Travel carefully, avoiding all slopes steeper than 35 degrees, and consider staying away from the runout beneath these areas as well.  At lower elevations variable icy surfaces are present, as well as downed trees and branches, making for challenging conditions. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Numerous natural and human triggered avalanches occurred in neighboring zones in the last few days. Some avalanches are failing within the new snow layer, and some are failing on weak snow down to the Jan 24 crust. There are reports of remotely triggered avalanches, and some observers said that the avalanches are propagating further than expected.  About 2 feet of snow fell at upper elevations in the West Central zone in the last week, accompanied by wind, so avalanches are expected to have occurred here as well. The storm ended but continue travelling conservatively in the backcountry for the time being.

    As you move along feel for changes in the snow, noting when it becomes stiffer and more pillow-like in appearance. Wind loaded slopes are areas that you definitely want to avoid on Wednesday.  Stay off wind loaded slopes steeper than 35 degrees, and also consider avoiding the terrain beneath those steep slopes as well.  

    (1/28/2021) A skier triggered avalanche in wind drifted snow that broke about 1ft deep and ran on a crust layer in the West North Zone. Photo: Matt Lubar

Avalanche Discussion

Over a foot of snow has fallen in the last 2 days, and avalanches will still occur in the snow we've received over the last week.  In the West North zone, multiple natural avalanches reached down to the valley floor where they nearly struck a group of ski tourers (see video below). While the West North zone received more snow than we did, this is a good reminder to be conscious of the terrain above you. At lower elevations you will still find challenging conditions with open creeks and variable snow surfaces including crusts coated by only a few inches of snow.  

Wednesday is the day to head out into low angle terrain, which will still be really nice, as you will probably even see some sunshine, a welcome change after the last week. In regards to sunshine, you may encounter wet loose avalanches on steep sunny slopes. Pay attention to the snow as you travel, and if it starts getting moist on those sunny slopes, expect wet loose avalanches to come down.  

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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