Olympics

Shallow wind slabs may form below ridgelines and steep slopes with freshly drifted snow by Thursday afternoon.  A small avalanche or cornice failure could awaken deeper instabilities.  Limit your exposure to large avalanche paths until we have more information about weak layers 2-3 feet down in the snowpack.

Midweek weather has been benign at Hurricane Ridge with generally light to moderate winds and ample sunshine.  This continues to allow gradual snowpack settlement following about 1 ft (30 cm) over last weekend.  There is a new crust (2/7) below the recent storm snow. 

Moving forward, new snow avalanche concerns will be related to an incoming frontal system on Thursday.  Snow should increase in the afternoon along with ridgeline winds.  Blowing snow, stiff, firm snow surfaces, and cracks shooting through the snow are all signs that you could trigger a slide. Steer around steep slopes where you find freshly drifted snow, sticking to lower angle or wind-sheltered terrain if necessary.  

We're still concerned about a weak facet/crust combination about 2-3 feet below the snow surface.   There hasn't been an avalanche observed down to this layer in almost 2 weeks, but the structure remains in terrain with start zones at mid and high elevations.  Even though you are unlikely to see signs of instability, you should still be leery about stepping into large avalanche paths. Triggering a small avalanche near the surface or a cornice failure might be the right sized trigger to step down to this interface.  Give yourself an extra buffer by sticking to lower angle terrain or by traveling at lower elevations without overhead exposure. 

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.