Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Wind slabs formed as snow fell and wind blew Sunday afternoon. Search for wind affected terrain and avoid it on slopes steeper than 35 degrees, as you might trigger an avalanche in the wind loaded snow. Variable and firm snow surfaces exist on low elevation and southerly slopes, possibly making travel difficult.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Recently formed wind slabs could react to a human trigger on leeward slopes. On Sunday a burst of snowfall occurred and  wind continued, peaking early evening before decreasing into Monday. Textured surfaces or pillows of snow can help you identify wind loaded terrain.  The most common areas to find drifts are in gullies, around features, or possibly beneath cliff bands. In complex north-facing terrain at higher elevations, wind slabs deeper than just the new snow could react to your weight in isolated areas. Identify and avoid wind loaded slopes steeper than 35 degrees.

    Small natural wind slab which crossloaded on features, similar to what you might see on Monday.

Avalanche Discussion

Very small loose wet avalanches or rollerballs may occur in the new snow on steep southerly slopes if the sun appears. On those same slopes expect to find firm, variable surfaces beneath the new snow, and at lower elevations as well. 

We’ve received reports of cornice triggered avalanches in the last few days. Check out the photos below for a recent one on Mt. Pilchuck. Cooling temperatures will decrease their likelihood, but it is not out of the question that one may fall. There is a chance that a cornice could trigger wind slabs or maybe a deep slab avalanche on large, exposed upper elevation slopes. For this reason be very wary around cornices, staying far back from their edges and limit your exposure beneath corniced ridgelines.

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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