Olympics

An incoming storm may form fresh and shallow wind slabs near and above treeline by late in the day.  With mild temperatures forecast overnight and through Thursday morning, continue to give recently formed cornices extra space when traveling along ridgelines. 

Wednesday was sunny and mild with a bit of southerly breeze at Hurricane Ridge.  This has allowed for further snowpack settlement and allowed us to turn our attention toward new snow problems moving forward.  Winds will increase with precipitation starting Thursday afternoon.  You may find shallow new wind slabs have formed above 5000' by late in the day with further increasing avalanche hazard likely Thursday night.  With mild above freezing temperatures expected to last overnight before cooling down on Thursday,  continue to give recently formed large cornices a wide buffer when traveling along ridgelines.   

There are a couple of layers of note in the upper snowpack: 

1. A strong crust 15-20” below the snow surface. While no avalanches have been reported on this layer, it can serve as an excellent marker to interpret recent and coming storms. 
2. A facet/crust layer from mid-January is 4 feet or more below the snow surface. Recent large and destructive avalanches are occurring on this layer in the central cascades. 

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.