Olympics

3-6" of storm snow fell with Wednesday's storm in the Hurricane Ridge area.  NPS Rangers and NWAC forecasters on Friday found the recent snow resting over a firm crust (knife hard).   Rollerballs and small wet loose avalanches released from steep, rocky terrain on Thursday and Friday.  On sunny test slopes, they could initiate wet snow to run above the crust.  The wind had done some work, with wind-textured snow near and below ridgelines and drifts several inches to up to 2' thick in isolated areas. There was evidence that cornice chunks had triggered a few small natural wind slab avalanches on the lee slopes in the Hurricane Hill area within the last day or two.  All in all, the best riding conditions were found in more moderately angled terrain, away from trees, and with less wind effect/scoured areas on northerly aspects.  

Cooler conditions, along with more cloud cover, should bring an end to wet loose concerns over the weekend.  If it's milder than forecast and you find wet snow, watch out for wet loose avalanches that could run further than expected above the crust.  The most recent crust is a travel concern in its own right.  Steer around scoured icy patches, and either avoid, or be sure you know how to self-arrest a fall before crossing a steeper icy slope.   It goes without saying this winter, but be prepared to navigate plenty of melted-out slopes on southerlies, windward aspects, lower elevations, and in treed areas with snow, more challenging than usual travel.