Bollettino valanghe

Olympics

Northwest Avalanche Center
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In sintesi

A fresh round of winds and light snowfall may create isolated wind slabs near and above treeline Sunday.  If freshly drifted snow at higher elevations is more widespread or deeper than forecast, use caution on slopes steeper than 35 degrees. 

Problemi valanghivi

  • Loose Dry

    • Alta quota
    • Limite del bosco
    • Sotto il limite del bosco
    Probabilità
    Unlikely
    Dimensione
    1

    A weather system moving through Saturday night will kick up strong ridgeline winds but likely only produce 1-3" of snow near Hurricane Ridge above 5000'.  If you find more than a few inches of new snow in wind-sheltered locations Sunday,  fresh wind slabs may have formed on lee slopes and be more widespread than anticipated near and above treeline.  Where you see overhanging cornices and fresh wind drifts, use caution on steep slopes with similar features.  Consider the consequences of a small avalanche near terrain traps like cliff bands.  

Avalanche Discussion

From January 11th to 13th a major storm delivered heavy snow and rain to the Olympics.  Hurricane Ridge picked up 3.5" of water equivalent during the event mainly in the form of rain. While a modest amount of avalanche activity was reported in the Hurricane Ridge area following the event, large wet snow avalanches were reported by the public at Marmot Pass, Mt Ellinor and Mt Townsend this week.  Keep those public observations coming! 

Prior to Saturday night's storm, up to 2" of dry snow could be found on northerly aspects with a series of crusts in the upper snowpack.  Southerly aspects and along wind-blasted ridgelines, a firmer, thicker, and potentially slick surface crust existed. 

In the Hurricane Ridge area, visible glide cracks have opened following last week's warmth and rain.  Glide avalanches are unlikely, but until we have a prolonged cool down, don't linger under big slopes with glide cracks.  Despite last week's rain, the snowpack is above average for this time of year. 

While avalanche hazards are low, travel hazards are a real concern:

  • If you find firm and icy surfaces, make sure you can self-arrest before crossing steep slopes.
  • Old avalanche debris may make for difficult travel
  • Creeks may be blown out, difficult to cross, and have high and fast-moving water.

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.

Regioni coperte