East Slopes South

You can trigger a large avalanche on Saturday where new snow accumulates rapidly because of the wind. Stay off slopes over 35 degrees with windblown snow and give cornices wide berth.

Saturday's main avalanche problem will be shallow wind slabs developing at upper elevations and mostly confined to the new snow. Thursday observers at nearby White Pass reported easy to trigger avalanches in terrain where windblown snow accumulated and very sensitive cornices. These slides were running on a weak layer of snow formed on 12/29. Friday, rain and warm temperatures consolidated the snowpack and older wind slabs have likely stabilized except at the highest elevations. New wind slabs will be shallow and confined to fresh snow, but deeper, older wind slabs may still linger on the highest slopes.

Cornices are sensitive-give them wide berth and keep out from under them.  Firm and textured snow as well as cracking in the snow are signs you could trigger an avalanche.

Avoid travel on slopes steeper than 35 degrees where windblown snow has accumulated. Cornices are sensitive-give them wide berth and keep out from under them.  Firm and textured snow as well as cracking in the snow are signs you could trigger an avalanche.

At lower elevations and in wind-sheltered areas around 8 inches of moist snow sits on the surface. Snow levels should rise to around 4500' on Saturday. The rain/snow line should be a good indicator of the likelihood of triggering a loose wet avalanche. If it is raining or you find a very wet and soft snow surface, you could trigger a loose wet avalanche in terrain over 35 degrees. Watch for signs of warming such as rain, roller balls on the snow surface, and trees dripping water to indicate the snow surface weakening. Navigate around slopes steeper than 35 degrees and avoid features such as convex rolls and unsupported slopes like those above cliffs or creeks.

Snow cover at upper elevations is increasing but remains shallow below treeline and at all elevations further east and away from the Cascade Crest. Typical early season hazards are still in play and you'll likely encounter open creeks and exposed stumps and rocks. 

Check the media gallery for updated photos of Mt Aix, Mt Darland and Pinegrass Ridge taken from White Pass.

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.