Olympics

Give the snowpack time to adjust to the large amount of water we have just received by staying off slopes greater than 35 degrees. Pay close attention to wind-affected slopes or slopes receiving direct sunlight. Avalanches may be large enough to injure, bury, or kill you.

Thursday will be the first real break from a week-long parade of storms that have impacted the Olympic Mountains. Over 8” of water has been recorded at NWAC’s weather station on Hurricane Ridge during this time, with the snowpack growing 3-4 feet. If you plan to take advantage of the break in the weather to get out into the mountains on Thursday, tread lightly. The snowpack still needs time to adjust to this large amount of water. Most hazard should be found on open slopes due to the new snow received the past week, with heightened hazard on wind affected slopes. Winds also helped to build out cornices during this time period, which could be fresh and primed to collapse. To add a layer of complexity, you should be aware of what is happening to the snow surface if the sun is out for a prolonged period tomorrow. Given enough solar input, the snow surface could destabilize, creating wet avalanches. With so much recent snow, any avalanche may grow large and deadly, regardless of whether it is wet or dry. 

Due to the ferocity of the storm, observations have been limited, increasing our uncertainty at the highest elevations. What we do know is that several potential weak layers may exist in the upper snowpack. This includes a layer of buried surface hoar that resulted in at least one avalanche on New Year’s Eve. If avalanches break or step-down into these deeper layers they could result in isolated very large and destructive slides. Take a look at the upper snowpack to identify and check the reactivity of these potential weak layers. Two notable snowpack markers may help you when assessing the recent storm snow. A rain event to 5200’ on New Years Day formed a crust that was buried in the upper snowpack. We believe any potential avalanches will occur above this thin crust. Deeper in the snowpack you may find the much thicker 12/21 crust. This is a prominent layer across many zones. Nearly all of the snow above this crust fell as part of this ongoing storm cycle. 

In addition to the potentially hazardous avalanche conditions, non-avalanche hazards exist including tree well and deep snow immersion. Find out more information about deep snow safety HERE.

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.