East Slopes South

Very large avalanches have recently released from upper-elevation start zones in neighboring forecast areas.  Travel conservatively by limiting your exposure to large avalanche paths. This includes both upper elevation open slopes where avalanches may initiate, and also lower elevation terrain where large avalanches may reach.  High above you, a cornice failure or a natural wet snow avalanche could step down and become a  larger and more destructive slide. 

Very large, deep slab avalanches were reported last Friday through Monday in the southern and central Cascades.  Some of these monsters released naturally several days after the most recent significant winter storm.  Most recently and closest to the East South zone, a large to very large avalanche naturally released on Spiral Butte, just east of White Pass Monday.  Very large deep slab avalanches (D3-D3.5) released naturally in the Crystal Mt backcountry last Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  These avalanches are large enough that it would be difficult to survive if you were caught in a similar slide.

Treat this ongoing avalanche cycle with respect.  Deep persistent slabs are a low-likelihood, high consequence gamble that has professionals and experienced backcountry travelers alike on edge throughout the region.  Without specific information about the likelihood of triggering a deep persistent slab in the East South Zone, it's just not worth the risk. Limit your exposure to large avalanche paths, sticking to simpler terrain such as smaller slopes or tree covered terrain that does not have open slopes above it. Do not linger below large avalanche paths.

A cooling trend begins Friday, but in the process, light rain and or snow may weaken the snow surface. If you find wet surface snow or indicators of increasing instability like rain, rollerballs or pinwheels, move to lower angle terrain or shadier aspects.  Cornices have grown big in some areas.  Cooling temps will help stabilize these cornices, but that will likely not be until Friday night. Avoid going underneath them and give them a wide buffer.  A large cornice failure could wake up the sleeping beast on the slope below. 

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.