Avalanche forecast

Olympics

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

You may trigger a wind slab avalanche at upper elevations on Saturday.  Steer around open slopes steeper than 35 degrees that have firmer wind stiffened snow.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Shallow wind slabs formed over the last two days are likely hiding out on lee slopes above treeline.  Use caution before you jump onto big open slopes above treeline, you can still trigger a slab avalanche in the right piece of terrain.  In areas where you find firmer wind stiffened snow, consider the consequences of a small avalanche.  You can always move to lower angle terrain or more wind-scoured aspects to avoid this problem. 

    Example of a shallow wind slab you may trigger on steep wind-loaded slopes Saturday.

Avalanche Discussion

Following a quick 2-3 inches of snow through Friday morning, we should be headed into a period of relatively lower avalanche danger and tranquil weather on Saturday. If you're out, consider sharing an observation with us and your backcountry community. 

NPS and NWAC staff in the Hurricane Ridge area on Thursday found good stability and a deep snowpack.  In less wind-affected areas, the snowpack has grown 3-4' above 5000' since New Year's Eve! On lee north aspects at 5800',  snow depths averaged about 7-8 ft.  The upper 3 ft (1m) had a favorable hardness profile meaning weaker over stronger snow.  Older storm snow instabilities seem to have settled out and no new or recent slab avalanches were observed in the surrounding terrain.  Small loose dry avalanches were running fast on steep slopes.  On southerly aspects, a semi-breakable crust can be found under a few inches of snow.  Below treeline, the storm snow from the last week is still unconsolidated in many areas. 

2020-21 Forecast Schedule: Avalanche danger ratings will be issued for the Olympics every Friday through Sunday and during mid-week holidays. During the week when the Hurricane Ridge road is closed, forecast information will be updated daily to include expected conditions and relevant travel advice under the No Rating label.   

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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