Avalanche forecast

East Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Winds will begin to drift snow into shallow slabs above treeline during the afternoon. Use caution in steep terrain near ridgelines, where even a small slide could cause injury. Expect a firm or breakable crust under a few inches of snow in most areas. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Southeasterly winds will ramp up during the afternoon, drifting snow into shallow slabs in the alpine zone. You are most likely to stumble into these near exposed features and ridgelines above 6,000ft. Fresh wind slabs are not expected to bond well with weak snow over a crust, so they could be reactive if you find one. For the most part, there isn't much recent snow to drift around, so slabs should be shallow and isolated in the terrain. Use caution near ridgelines, where even a small slide could cause injury. Stay alert to changing conditions, and look for signs of wind drifting snow such as plumes coming off ridgelines. Heed signs of instability such as shooting cracks in cohesive drifts of snow, and aim to avoid any wind loaded pockets on steep slopes. 

    Small, isolated pockets of wind drifted snow are expected to form in the afternoon.

Avalanche Discussion

2-3 inches of recent snow is sitting on weak snow over a slick crust. Observers have noted facets and surface hoar to be widespread within the zone. This facet/crust interface will be the main concern moving forward, especially as snowfall begins to add up during the week. On Monday, observers noted a couple small loose avalanches from steep south facing slopes near Gallagher Head Lake on Monday. A near-surface crust is firm and supportive below treeline. In upper elevations, the crust is breakable and less supportive, though surfaces could be firm and slick on steep slopes. Use caution where you could slide a long way or hit rocks, trees, or cliffs.

It's been almost two weeks since our last major storm and avalanche cycle.  Large and destructive avalanches ran on January 12th, as heavy snow changed to rain. Debris piles, icy runnels, and evidence of this avalanche cycle can still be found in the mountains. 

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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