Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

A natural avalanche cycle may occur Saturday night, and dangerous conditions will linger into Sunday. You could trigger a 4ft deep avalanche on weak snow near a crust. Steer around steep open slopes as well as sparsely treed terrain at mid and upper elevations while the snowpack adjusts to this big storm load.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    2–3

    Steer around open slopes greater than 35 degrees until the snowpack has a chance to adjust to this hefty new load. Any avalanche triggered in the recent snow could step down to the crust from 12/21. This crust may be found 3 to 4ft deep, with weaker, dry snow just above it. Use small slopes and up-track tests to see how the new snow reacts under your weight, but these tests may not tell you much about what is deeper than 2ft or so. Take a look at which layers are failing and think about where else you could find a similar snow structure. As you ascend in elevation or travel into wind affected terrain, remember avalanches could be deeper and more destructive the higher you go.

    (1/1/2021) Testing storm snow layers on a small unsupported slope.

Avalanche Discussion

We’re more than 5 days into a prolonged storm cycle at Stevens Pass. Snow continues to pile up, especially at mid and upper elevations. As the storm totals grow so does our uncertainty. Any avalanche has the potential to entrain additional snow, grow larger and become destructive.

On Saturday morning, WSDOT avalanche team triggered some large slides down to the 12/21 crust. In many places, we’re primarily concerned about the new snow hazards, but this recent activity on the 12/21 crust demands respect. On Friday I found this structure throughout a range of aspects and elevations, and snowpack test results suggested that the crust can fail and produce avalanches. While triggering this layer might be difficult due to the strength of the overlying snow, if it failed the resulting avalanche may be very large. You may find the prominent 12/21 crust and it’s associated facets 2-3’ below the snow surface. Avoid traveling in obvious starting zones and steep open slopes where this layer cloud roar to life. 

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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