Eastside Region

Generally stable conditions persist across the forecast area, and avalanches are unlikely at all elevations. Variable surfaces and shallow conditions remain the greatest hazards in the backcountry. 

Dry and clear conditions persist today, keeping the focus for backcountry travelers on a generally shallow snowpack and a variety of challenging surface conditions. Recent northerly winds have been hard at work moving loose surface snow from exposed slopes and alpine start zones. This has left a variety of scoured and 3-dimensional wind-pressed surfaces in most areas. Small and stubborn wind slabs remain an unlikely possibility in isolated areas near and above treeline. Be particularly cautious in steep and exposed terrain where even a small avalanche could lead to a high-consequence fall.

It will be important to evaluate slopes carefully and to be ready for a variety of hard surfaces as you head into the backcountry today. Specialized tools like boot and/or ski crampons and an ice ax may be necessary depending on where you wish to travel. In addition, best travel practices will help keep you safe and skiing longer into the season: keeping eyes on your partners, skiing one at a time from safe zone to safe zone in big terrain, and creating margins for uncertainty.