Olympics

We have a low likelihood - high consequence situation where triggering a shallow slab avalanche or cornice has the potential to result in a large and deadly avalanche that breaks down to weaker, deeper snow layers.  Play it conservative and avoid travelling on or below large avalanche paths. 

Preliminary avalanche incident information Monday February 8th, 2021: Two snow bike riders were caught and buried by a very large avalanche in the mountains west of Salmon la Sac Sno-Park along Cle Elum Lake. One snow biker was partially buried and was able to dig himself out. The other rider was fully buried and killed by the avalanche. The avalanche occurred on a north aspect at 4400 ft in the Knox Creek drainage. This terrain lies in NWAC’s East Central forecast zone. Avalanche classification: HS-AV-R3-D3-O. 

All of us at NWAC want to extend our condolences to family, friends and the local community following this tragic event.  

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As we head toward a relatively quieter weather pattern this week, recent snow avalanche problems have faded away but we still have plenty of questions about persistent weak layers about 3 feet below the surface. 

Continue to be leery of wind-loaded terrain where you may trigger an avalanche within recent snow.  This includes using care near cornices that may have grown large during this past week’s stormy weather.

The mid-January crust/facet combo continues to be identified in snowpack tests.  Professionals reported two whumpfing collapses on Sunday, a sign that this layer may still be with us as we head into midweek.  Over the weekend, we didn't receive any reports of avalanches big or small. Given the uncertainty and the relatively higher reactiveness of these layers across the Sound, practice extra caution over this time.  Persistent slabs can break widely around terrain features. Don't try to manage this problem.  Give yourself a healthy buffer and stick to lower angled terrain at mid and lower elevations that are not exposed to large avalanche paths. 

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.