East Slopes South

There is a small chance of encountering an isolated pocket of wind-loaded snow on a high-elevation, exposed slope. The bigger hazard is slippery surfaces that will take you for a long, malicious ride should you slip and fall. Ensure you're carrying appropriate gear that you know how to use and take note of consequential terrain below you.

Warm daytime temperatures on Thursday will be counteracted by increasing cloud coverage and wind as a low-pressure system works its way over the region. Unfortunately, this so-called "storm" system will not amount to anything exciting. This at least means avalanche danger remains low for the foreseeable future. Another positive to focus on during these trying times is that good sledding and skiing can be found on open north and northeast facing aspects. Observations have confirmed good turns in dry powder at upper elevations in neighboring zones. Forecasters found soft recycled powder - faceting snow at the surface - around 4800 ft on Snoqualmie Pass which means crusts are beginning to break down. If you plan to get out in search of similarly smooth turns, keep a couple more things in mind:

• If you were to find unstable wind-loaded snow, it would be in a piece of complex, rocky terrain at upper elevations such as this recent triggered slide in the West North zone. Investigate for instability if you see blowing snow. Use clues like rippled snow surfaces and cornices to identify the previous wind-loading pattern. Wind-loaded snow nearby will look comparatively smooth and rounded.
• Crusty slopes are slippery. The consequences of an uncontrolled fall on a steep slope could be substantial if you are carried into trees, rocks, or cliffs. This observation from near the border of the Steven's Pass and East Central zones does a great job of highlighting the variable state of the snowpack right now. As these observers were, be prepared with extra pieces of gear such as ski/boot crampons, whippets/ice axes, and extra layers.

Help NWAC Forecasters reduce uncertainty by submitting an observation. Obs are marvelously helpful even during periods of inactive weather and low avalanche hazard. Additionally, consider the current snow and weather circumstances as an excellent opportunity to refresh your avalanche rescue skills and check in on any gear that needs repair!