Backcountry Avalanche and Stream Crossing Dangers This Weekend

“There is extreme avalanche danger through Sunday in the Cascades and Olympics, and backcountry travel near avalanche terrain should be avoided." 

"Not only is there extreme avalanche danger in the backcountry, there is another very serious threat to backcountry hikers."

“We expect hikers will be out enjoying the wonderful warm temperatures this weekend, but is critical that they pack an extra dose of caution in their backpacks. Very warm temperatures will lead to rapid melting of the record snowpack we have in the Cascades and Olympics right now. Low-to mid-elevation hikes with river and stream crossings could present serious hazards in a case like this. Streams and rivers will be swollen with snowmelt and running high. Crossings should be taken with extreme care. Remember that it was in conditions such as this that two hikers died last year while crossing a swollen stream at Mount Rainier National Park. If you have any concern about a stream crossing, turn around. And remember that streams can run higher even over the course of a few hours, so plan accordingly. Talk to rangers about conditions and heed their recommendations.”
 

Avalanche danger: http://www.nwac.us/products/SABWA

Contact local ranger stations: http://www.wta.org/hiking-info/ranger-station-info