East Slopes North

Avalanches are unlikely and difficult to trigger. You'll find variable surface conditions and isolated areas of wind drifted snow above treeline.  On the eastern end of the zone, shallower and weaker snow can be found. 

There are some small wind slabs lingering above treeline from westerly winds on the 17th and 18th. These avalanches will be difficult to trigger and will be isolated to pockets in the terrain.  If you find signs of recently drifted snow, it's still a good idea to limit your exposure to avalanche terrain and steer around typical trigger points and loaded features. The last known avalanche was reported on Tuesday; a recent looking wind drifted slab in extreme terrain above treeline. On Monday, a skier triggered a small wind slab avalanche in the above treeline near Washington Pass. Also on Monday, a glide avalanche was reported on a solar aspect near Kangaroo Peak. 

Most recently observers have reported facets on the snow surface and widespread surface hoar below treeline. In general, the snowpack around Washington Pass is strong and relatively deep.  In the eastern part of the zone, you'll find a shallower and possibly weaker snowpack. An observer found buried weak layers in the Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains near Chelan on the 16th. If you travel in the eastern mountains, such as the Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains or the Twisp River, Eight Mile, and Chewuch drainages, take time to dig in the snow and look for older weak layers. Look and listen for signs of instability such as shooting cracks and whumphs. If you find these signs, avoid large, open slopes steeper than 35 degrees. 

On the night of January 12th, A major avalanche cycle was brought on by heavy snow and rain. Observers reported many large to very large avalanches up to D3 in size (big enough to break mature timber and bury cars). An avalanche hit a closed portion of Highway 20, below Delancey Ridge, running over 3,000ft and depositing debris that was 9 feet deep in places. Evidence of this avalanche cycle can still be seen in the mountains. 

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.