Avalanche forecast

East Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Dangerous conditions may persist where thicker, recently formed wind slabs have layered over older weak snow surfaces.  Think twice before engaging with steep open slopes at upper elevations with wind-stiffened snow.  Red flags like whumpfing or collapsing at any elevation are signs to avoid nearby steep slopes.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Moderate westerly winds eased on Tuesday but are expected to increase once again Wednesday afternoon and could once again load the same aspects as earlier in the week.  Colder temperatures will slow the healing process for recently formed wind slabs.  Between a lack of direct observations above treeline and a potentially trickly snowpack, conservative terrain selection is warranted once again.  

    Thicker drifts and slabs are likely to be found on leeward slopes below ridgelines and exposed features in the alpine. Use extra caution on lower angle approaches because these slabs may be resting on weak, faceted grains and could break well above you. 

    If you experience whumping or collapsing in sheltered areas, assume you can trigger a persistent slab avalanche on nearby slopes.  Retreat to slopes 30 degrees or less and put a large buffer between you and larger avalanche paths.  

    (2/1/2022)

    Shooting crack on a wind-loaded feature at 5,800ft in the upper Salmon la Sac drainage.

    Photo: Ryan Minton

Avalanche Discussion

6-12" of recent snow overlies a variety of older weak snow surfaces in the Washington Pass area.  Professionals experienced collapsing in some areas Monday and Tuesday, leading to conservative travel decisions.  Prior to the storm,  observers consistently found near-surface facets on a variety of shaded, northerly slopes and surface hoar on similar aspects below 5,300-5,600ft.  With incremental storms loading and testing the recently buried weak layers this week, we may find ourselves in an even touchier situation in a few days. 

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