East Slopes South

A week of mostly dry spring-like weather created generally stable avalanche conditions. After a firm overnight refreeze, the top several inches of snow will become slushy but likely won't be enough to increase the avalanche danger.  Continue to give large cornices and steep snow-covered cliff faces a wide berth. 

High temperatures ranged from 48-54 F each day Wednesday through Saturday at Bumping Ridge (4600 ft), likely fully stabilizing up to 10" of snow that fell on 3/28 into 3/29. Temperatures were significantly cooler on Sunday, only reaching 38F. However, elevations below 4500 ft may have experienced several nights with above freezing conditions. Similar conditions led to the development of a glide avalanche cycle in the Snoqualmie Pass area. While we expect a better refreeze Sunday night, water draining the snowpack above cliffs and other rock features may continue to drain. Limit your time below open glide cracks and/or cliff faces that continue to hold snow.

As temperatures warm on Monday, pay attention to the snow surface as it transitions from firm crusts to slushy surface snow. If you can sink into up to your ankle, you could trigger a wet avalanche on a steep slope. Steer around higher consequence terrain and seek colder, firmer, shaded aspects. Maintain an eye out for nearby fresh avalanche activity as a warning sign that the upper snowpack may be destabilizing more than we expect. 

Continue to give cornices a wide berth as you travel along ridgelines and be aware of the overhead hazard if traveling on slopes below these giant masses. Warm temperatures will weaken the snow and ice holding them up, making them increasingly likely to collapse.

As we continue into spring, we're experiencing a gradual transition from a colder layered snowpack to a wet spring snowpack. That transition takes place from the top down. If you dig down in the snow, pay attention to how deeply meltwater has percolated, and please consider sharing your finding on the public observations page. This will improve our ability to forecast wet avalanche problems as the spring snowpack evolves.

Observers in the Tieton River drainage on 3/27 found low elevation and steep south-facing slopes starting to melt out as the calendar approaches April. After a week of mild weather, expect more melt-out, flowing streams, and exposed rocks.

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.