Avalanche forecast

East Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

The avalanche danger will rise during the day as strong winds continue to redistribute fresh snowfall onto a variety of aspects and further downslope than usual.  Wind slabs may break in surprising ways if new slabs build over older weak snow.  You are more likely to find and trigger an avalanche as you climb in elevation and into more open terrain. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    While snowfall totals should end up in a modest 6+" range, the wind is expected pack a punch and transport snow throughout the day.  Particular to this storm, think about wind slabs forming further downslope and below ridgelines than your usual garden variety PNW storm.  In addition, fresh slabs may be more sensitive and easier to trigger where they build over the previous weak snow surface. Avoid all open lee slopes steeper than 35 degrees where you suspect winds slabs may have formed. Watch for cracking in the new snow as a sign of instability and feel for areas of stiffer wind-pressed snow as you change aspects and elevations. To avoid the problem you can always choose wind sheltered and lower-angle terrain not connected to steep open slopes above. 

    Blowing snow, firm and textured snow, and cornice formation are all evidence that wind slabs are likely to be forming on lee slopes.

Avalanche Discussion

Change is in the air as a quick moving but potent storm sweeps through on Monday and potentially shakes up the status quo.  In the last week, few avalanches and overall quiet conditions have been observed. On Sunday, professionals in the area reported surface hoar up to ridgecrest on northerly aspects with a recent suncrust on steeper solar aspects. A wind event earlier this month stripped snow off of some windward slopes.  Outside of new snow avalanche concerns, 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. 

While it's been a great start to the season, many slopes are still shallowly covered with snow. There are many exposed logs and rocks. Creeks and lakes are still open in places. Use caution and travel conservatively on slopes with shallow coverage.

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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