The NWS reports avalanche warning until Wednesday evening

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An avalanche warning was reported by the NWS Seattle WA on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in effect until Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. for Cascades of Whatcom and Skagit counties and Cascades of Snohomish and Northern King counties.

The NWS adds, "High avalanche danger is expected in the West Central zone Tuesday night and Wednesday."

"Large to very large natural wet snow avalanches are expected. Avalanches that release from higher elevations could run long distances to lower elevations or into terrain that is usually considered safe," states the NWS.

This warning is in effect until Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.

How to stay safe according to the NWS

Know the three factors required for an avalanche:

• Slope: Avalanche generally occur on slopes steeper than 30 degrees
• Snowpack: Recent avalanches, shooting cracks, and "whumpfing" are signs of unstable snow
• Trigger: Sometimes it doesn't take much to tip the balance; people, new snow, and wind are common triggers

Determine if you are on or below slopes that can avalanche:

• Find out if the snow is stable
• Get the advisory: Refer to your local avalanche center for current snowpack conditions
• Get the gear and learn how to use it

Have these three avalanche safety essentials in your pack:

• Transceiver: So you can be found if covered by the snow
• Shovel: So you can dig out your partner
• Probe: So you can locate someone who has been covered by the snow

Avalanche survival rates plummet after about 15 minutes for victims who do not die from trauma. Saving your partner is up to you! Practicing realistic scenarios beforehand is essential.

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots Washington

This story was originally published March 17, 2026 at 7:33 PM.