East Slopes South

On Wednesday, you can trigger avalanches in wind-blown snow on slopes 35 degrees and steeper. Hazard will be greatest in freshly formed pillows and recent drifts of snow above treeline. With a load of new snow, you may be able to trigger large and dangerous avalanches in old layers of weak snow.

Avalanches will be the largest and most dangerous near and above treeline, in wind-exposed terrain, and near ridgelines. Look at snow surface texture and feel for stiff snow over weaker snow to identify wind slabs. Watch for cracking in the snow as a warning sign of the danger. Slabs will be growing throughout the day. Use extra caution in and around terrain traps, where any avalanche could have serious consequences. Use test slopes or snowpack tests to check how well these slabs are bonding. As always, avoid wind loaded slopes steeper than 35 degrees if you find signs of instability such as shooting cracks. Wind slabs may rest over the most recent (12/21) crust at upper elevations.

Persistent slab avalanches present in the East Central zone are also on our radar due to a new load of snow testing a weak layer of sugary snow from back in early December. This structure is similar to that involved in past avalanche accidents in this area and continues to warrant respect. The consequences of triggering avalanches are serious as they could easily bury or kill you. These dangerous and surprising avalanches can catch even the most experienced backcountry travelers. The best way to stay safe is to avoid the type of terrain where you are most likely to trigger one. Keep your distance from slopes 35 degrees and steeper that are open enough and tall enough to produce large avalanches. Watch for obvious signs of instability like recent avalanches, whumphing collapses, or cracks shooting through the snow.

Look for weak snow just above a thick melt-freeze crust several ft below the surface, above 5,000 ft elevation. These layers are not a concern where you find a stout crust near the surface, such as areas further south and at lower elevations. 

Snow cover at upper elevations is increasing but remains shallow below treeline and at all elevations further east and away from the Cascade Crest. Typical early season hazards are still in play and you'll likely encounter open creeks and exposed stumps and rocks. 

Check the media gallery for updated photos of Mt Aix, Mt Darland and Pinegrass Ridge taken from White Pass.

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.