March 31, 2012

SPECIAL ALERT !!!

Recent solar flares with associated highly energized positve charged ions will reach the Pacific Northwest Sunday morning, April 1st.  The Steven Pass area will experience this between the hours of 8:40am to 10:20am pacific daylight saving time.    WARNING !   Do not use two way radios, cell phone, or microwave ovens during this time. Turn off all company computers.   All Lifts will be running on back up auxillary motors.  Any guest with electric implanted pacemakers should be advised to stay inside cement buildings.  Avoid touching the R T P gates with your waist as this may lead to mild to severe damage to localized areas.

Frontal Gradient Wave.

Interesting pre-frontal wave associated with tomorrow's cold front. Watch for high winds as gradients tighten ahead of the front.  The passing of the front will leave cool air and snow showers - It could be good skiing tomorrow afternoon.

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STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/31/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Looks like we might dodge the rain today thanks to east flow, but I wouldn’t completely rule it out just yet. An approaching cold front will keep snow showers pumping through the mountains for the rest of the weekend. Note wind advisory below.

Long-term: A strong warm front drives another storm in on Monday. This storm gets warmer with every model run, so the possibility of heavy rain will be in the next few discussions. The air mass turns cool and unsettled for the second half of the week with isolated snow showers likely.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Saturday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .25
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm= .25+

24hr total “of water = .75

24hr Snow Total= 6-10

Trend and Timing:
Light to moderate snow showers will continue through the night. The approaching cold front will enhance the snow tomorrow morning. Snow will turn to showers once the front moves through tomorrow afternoon.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 24 High: 34
Freezing level: 4000’ 3000’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover right at Pass level through the night. Temperatures will begin to fall during the early morning hours with freezing levels dropping as low as 2000’ tomorrow.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-10 E shifting W

Trend and Timing:
Easterly flow is expected to weaken through the night and then shift westerly tomorrow. A strong frontal wind event is expected tomorrow morning with ridge top winds topping 50mph. Winds should quickly diminish with passing front.

JM

8:00am Start Time for Sunday, April 1st, 2012

March 30, 2012

Start Time Saturday---8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/30/2012 Weather

General Discussion: There will be a short break in the action this afternoon before the next system lifts up from the south early tomorrow morning. Systems from the south usually mean warmer air, this is no exception, so expect some rain mixed in with the snow.

Long-term: This stormy wet pattern will persist through the start of next week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Friday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= <.25
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm=.25

24hr total “of water = .5

24hr Snow Total= 3-5

Trend and Timing:
Snow showers will diminish throughout the remainder of the day. The next round of moisture is expected to arrive during the early morning hours. Tomorrow’s weather show will be snow turning to mixed rain and then changing back to snow tomorrow night.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 26 High: 34
Freezing level: 3500’ 4500’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will stay below pass level through the night and then rise to 4500’ during the day tomorrow. Cooler air arrives on Sunday with freezing levels dropping to 3000’.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-10 W shifting E

Trend and Timing:
Light westerly flow will shift back to easterly overnight.

JM

March 29, 2012

Mnt Baker Avalanche pics

http://grantgunderson.com/blog/?p=132

Impressive

Start Time Friday---6:15am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/29/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Another glorious powder day at Stevens Pass. Snow will continue for the remainder of the week.

Long-term: The northern jet stream continues to be content driving storms through the PNW. Active weather will likely continue well into next week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Thursday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .5
“of additional water by 4am= .25
“of additional water by 12pm= .10

24hr total “of water = .75

24hr Snow Total= 6-10

Trend and Timing:
Moderate snow will continue for the rest of the day. Snow is expected to slowly shift to intermittent showers after midnight with snow showers continuing tomorrow.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 26 High: 32
Freezing level: +- 4000’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover right at Pass level through tomorrow.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-10 SW

Trend and Timing:
The easterly flow should give way to SW flow during the next 24 hrs. Higher gust will continue along the upper ridges.

JM

March 28, 2012

Start Time Thursday---8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/28/2012 Weather

General Discussion: This morning’s radar shows bands of broken clouds moving through the region with just spotty showers and sun breaks. The first of two strong frontal systems will sweep through the state tonight bringing moderate to heavy snow to the mountains tomorrow and Friday.

Long-term: The NW jet stream will continue to bring active weather to the PNW through the weekend and likely into next week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Wednesday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .10
“of additional water by 4am= .25
“of additional water by 12pm= .5

24hr total “of water = .75

24hr Snow Total= 8-10

Trend and Timing:
Models suggest the timing of the main event will be after midnight tonight. Snow will intensify through the morning and then turn to showers in the afternoon.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 28 High: 34
Freezing level: 3500’

Trend and Timing:
Some sun breaks today could push surface temperature above freezing. Freezing levels will hover between 3000’ and 4000’ through these storms.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
Surface - 0-10 E,
Ridge Tops - 10-15 SW

Trend and Timing:
While there is a high wind advisory for the coast and the south sound, we should be sheltered from those winds. Therefore expect gusty SW winds along the ridge tops and east flow at Pass level.

JM

Bridger Bowl Avalanche

A completely skier compacted slope at Bridger avalanches.  Note to self.


https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/media/set/?set=a.10150658777653759.395316.360786338758&type=3

March 27, 2012

Start Time Wednesday---8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/27/2012 Weather

General Discussion: The first of several weak fronts will move through the mountains beginning today. Warmer air will also arrive this evening raising freezing levels for a short period.

Long-term: A stronger frontal system late Wednesday night is expected to bring measurable snow on Thursday. Cool NW flow will keep the threat of snow through the weekend.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Tuesday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= <.25
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm= .10

24hr total “of water = >.25

24hr Snow Total= 1-3

Trend and Timing:
Light snow showers will pass through the mountains today and tomorrow. A mixture of light rain/snow will be possible below 4500’ tonight. No significant accumulation is expected until Thursday.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 24 High: 36
Freezing level: 4000’ 4500’ 3500

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels are expected to spike up to 4500’ after closing today. Temperatures will then fall back below Pass level during the early morning hours.


Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-10 E

Trend and Timing:
Easterly flow at pass level should stay intact while SW winds hit the ridge tops tomorrow.

JM

March 26, 2012

8:00am Start Time for Tues. March 27th, 2012

Weather Short

SW flow will begin a progressively wetter weather pattern starting today. The freezing levels will bounce between 4-5k tomorrow with a nice mixture of rain and snow.    Cooler air with more moisture arrives on Wednesday - so another week will finish with more snow added to the pack. 

JM

March 24, 2012

8:00am Start Time for Sunday March 25th, 2012

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/24/2012 Weather

General Discussion: There are some weak disturbances moving up the coast today, hence the high clouds. We are still expecting mostly dry conditions today and most of tomorrow.

Long-term: It looks like a soggy weather pattern for most of next week. Freezing levels are expected to bounce between 4000’ and 5500’ with several bands of moisture progressively getting juicier as the week progresses.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Saturday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= 0
“of additional water by 4am= 0
“of additional water by 12pm= <.10

24hr total “of water = trace

24hr Snow Total= 0

Trend and Timing:
There is a slight possibility of some very light rain tomorrow but it should be hardly noticeable.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 30 High: 40
Freezing level: 4000’ 5000’

Trend and Timing:
Mild temperatures will continue through tomorrow. Freezing levels are expected to peak at or above 5000’ sometime tonight and remain high for the rest of the weekend.

Winds Speed (mph)/Directio
0-5E shifting W

Trend and Timing:
Light easterly wind today will shift to light westerlies tomorrow.

JM

March 23, 2012

March out...roaring like a lion!

March is supposed to go out roarin like a lion. However there is a difference between a lion in the Zoo and a LION in the WILD. Looks like after the 26th the LION will be in the Zoo.

Start Time Saturday----8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/23/2012 Weather

General Discussion: It is good to see the sun. Dry and sunny conditions will continue through the weekend.

Long-term: Long-term models show a return to active wet weather early next week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Friday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= 0
“of additional water by 4am=0
“of additional water by 12pm=0

24hr total “of water =0

24hr Snow Total= 0

Trend and Timing:
0

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 18 High: 34
Freezing level: 2500’ 4000’

Trend and Timing:
Rising freezing levels and sun will team up to bring warm daytime temperatures. Good cooling under clear skies will also occur at night.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-15 E

Trend and Timing:
Light easterly winds are expected today with east flow strengthen overnight.

JM

March 22, 2012

Start Time Friday---8:00am

Temperature Return to Seasonal Norms.

The over all temperature regime is expected to warm to seasonal norms on Saturday.   

Yellow and orange colors indicate 4k-5K freezing levels @ 850mb.  Warmer temps are fairly wide spread over the waters of the Pacific. 
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STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/22/2012 Weather

General Discussion: The main mass of moisture has moved east of the mountains this morning leaving a drier atmosphere in its place.

Long-term: Warm and dry weather is expected through the weekend.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Thursday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= <.10
“of additional water by 4am= 0
“of additional water by 12pm= 0

24hr total “of water = <.10

24hr Snow Total= Trace

Trend and Timing:
A drier air mass will develop today with just a few light snow showers possible.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 24 High: 36
Freezing level: 2500’ 3000’

Trend and Timing:
Nice diurnal temperatures swings will occur for the next few days and nights. Freezing levels are expected to reach 5000’ or higher over the weekend.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-10 E

Trend and Timing:
Light easterly flow is expected to develop tonight and continue through the weekend.

JM

March 21, 2012

Start Time Thursday---8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/21/2012 Weather

General Discussion: I am not sure if the skiing could get any better. Some light snow is expected tonight with a drying trend underway tomorrow.

Long-term: Drier weather with a partly sunny day is expected on Friday which should also ring true for the weekend.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Wednesday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .10
“of additional water by 4am= .15
“of additional water by 12pm= 0

24hr total “of water = .25

24hr Snow Total= 2-5

Trend and Timing:
A band of light precipitation is expected to lift north late tonight. A drying trend will begin tomorrow and last through the weekend.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 18 High: 30
Freezing level: 1500’ 2500’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will remain unseasonable low through tomorrow. However, sun and longer day light hours will allow surface temperatures to creep near or above freezing.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-5 E

Trend and Timing:
Light east flow will develop tonight and then shift back to westerly tomorrow.

JM

March 20, 2012

6:15 Start Time for Wed. March 21st, 2012

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/20/2012 Weather

General Discussion: There’s nothing like an awesome snow storm to bring in the new season. Happy Spring Equinox everyone, the day when there is approximately 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness everywhere on earth.

Our storm, although 6hrs late, finally arrived – snow, cooling temps and wind today.

Long-term: Another system will slide up from the south tomorrow night for a bit more snow to report on Thursday morning. Pressure gradients are expected to ease and rise on Thursday – this will likely keep the approaching storms confined to the coast. Therefore, we can expect dry weather to finish week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Tuesday
Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .5
“of additional water by 4am=.10
“of additional water by 12pm= 0

24hr total “of water = .5-.75

24hr Snow Total= 5-8

Trend and Timing:
Snow will continue for most of the day and then quickly taper off after midnight. Tomorrow will start out dry with snow developing after 4pm.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 22 High: 26
Freezing level: 3000’ 1000’

Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will fall today with the passing of the cold front.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
10-20 W

Trend and Timing:
Strong westerly winds will be a nuisance for most of the day. Winds are expected to mellow out after midnight and then shift easterly tomorrow.

JM

Satellite Image

Below is a nice organized sat. image.  Notice the cold front along the coast pulling cold air from the NW (spotty "popcorn" clouds)   Then the long SW fetch of moisture trailing almost across the entire Pacific - and then, the tight low pressure cell spinning up the BC coast.   This is all fueling our winter storm today.  

JM

March 19, 2012

6;15am Start Time for Tue. March 20th,2012

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/19/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Enjoy the sun today because another round of snow is expected to begin tonight. It looks like another week of exceptional “spring” powder.

Long-term: A dry and clearing trend will round out the week with just a few systems brushing the coast. As of now, the weekend looks dry with seasonally average temperatures.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Monday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .25
“of additional water by 4am= .25
“of additional water by 12pm= <.25

24hr total “of water =.5-.75

24hr Snow Total= 8-12

Trend and Timing:
Snow is expected to arrive after closing today. Moderate to heavy snow will fall through early Wednesday morning.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 24 High: 32
Freezing level: 2000’   3500’     2500’

Trend and Timing:
Temperatures should recover nicely today with the aid of the sun. Freezing levels will rise with the arrival of the front and then fall in its wake. Snow levels will likely stay below pass level through this storm.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-10 W shifting E

Trend and Timing:
East flow develops tonight and then shifts westerly tomorrow. Watch for high post frontal westerly winds tomorrow - /+ 50 mph winds may be likely along the ridge tops.


JM

March 18, 2012

Start Time Monday 6:15am

Day Crew Cornic work on the Ridge.

500" ?

With more storms stacking up - we will likely break the 500"  mark for total snow fall this year.   It looks like another magical week of skiing.

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March 17, 2012

8:00am Start Time for Sunday, March 18th, 2012

NW JET STREAM

The jet stream forecast model for Tuesday is looking good for another great week of skiing.  I am sure spring is hanging out somewhere, but it sure isn't the PNW.

Animation of Jet Stream Forecasts

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/17/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Most of the moisture associated with today’s storm has already moved east of the mountains. Intermittent snow showers will linger through the rest of the day.

Long-term: Light passing snow showers with sun breaks will be possible for the rest of the weekend. The snow machine resumes late Monday night with more measurable snow expected on Tuesday.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Saturday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .10
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm= .10

24hr total “of water = .25

24hr Snow Total= 2-4

Trend and Timing:
Some upper level ridging is expected to begin to stabilize, and thus dry, the atmosphere tonight. Some low level moisture will continue to sneak in snow showers from time to time.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 18 High: 24
Freezing level: 2500’ 1000’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will remain unseasonable low through Monday.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-10 W

Trend and Timing:
Light westerly flow will be the norm through Monday.

JM

March 16, 2012

Start Time Saturday---8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/16/2012 Weather

General Discussion: The snow showers will slowly taper off today with some clearing possible this afternoon. A low pressure system will make an unusual south to north trajectory tomorrow, producing an intense but short lived snow event.

Long-term: Light snow showers with sun breaks are expected on Sunday and Monday with another strong winter storm developing for Tuesday/Wednesday.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Friday
Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= <.25
“of additional water by 4am= 0
“of additional water by 12pm= .25

24hr total “of water = .5

24hr Snow Total= 2-6

Trend and Timing:
Light snow showers will continue this afternoon with tonight being relatively dry. Snow will intensify tomorrow morning and then slowly turn to light snow showers by Sunday.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 24 High: 32
Freezing level: 3500’ 3000’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover between 3000’ and 4000’ for the next 24hrs. Cooler air is expected to lower freezing levels below 2000’ on Sunday.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-5W shifting 5-15 E

Trend and Timing:
East flow is expected to develop and strengthen overnight. Westerly flow will re-establish itself tomorrow evening.

JM

March 14, 2012

Start Time Thursday---6:15am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/14/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Another vigorous storm system will bring heavy precipitation to the PNW today and tomorrow. We will be playing the temperature game we know so well; snow/rain mix between 4000’ and 5000’ through tomorrow. A stark contrast to the record heat (80-90f) in the Midwest.

Long-term: NW flow will keep stormy weather in the forecast for the next 6-10 days. A few days of dry weather appear on Sunday and Monday with more active weather predicted for the middle of next week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Wednesday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .5
“of additional water by 4am= .25
“of additional water by 12pm= .5

24hr total “of water = 1-2

24hr Snow Total= 8-15

Trend and Timing:
Snow totals could be quite significant but will depend on where the freezing levels decide to settle. This is a juicy system with some models showing storm totals of over 5” of water possible.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 24 High: 36
Freezing level: 2500’ 4500’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels are expected to hit 4000’ late tonight or early tomorrow morning. Freezing levels will fluctuate between 4000’ and 5000’ through tomorrow.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-10 ESE

Trend and Timing:
East flow will try and hold steady through the night with SW flow eventually taking over sometime tomorrow.

JM

March 13, 2012

Start Time Wednesday---8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/13/2012 Weather

General Discussion: A passing upper level ridge has brought a break in the action today - hence the sun trying to make it through the clouds. The next front will hit the mountains tomorrow bringing more measurable snow.

Long-term: A well established NW flow pattern will keep storms funneling into the PNW for the remainder of week. Freezing levels are expected to reach Pass level sometime tomorrow night and stay hovering at +-4500’ through Thursday. Cooler temperatures are expected on Friday.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Tuesday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= <.25
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm= .25

24hr total “of water = .5

24hr Snow Total= 2-6

Trend and Timing:
Snow showers will hang around today with a short dry period tonight. The next round of snow is expected to reach the mountains after 7am tomorrow. Moderate to heavy snow with warming is expected throughout the day tomorrow.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 18 High: 24
Freezing level: 1000’ 3500’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will remain low through the night. Temperatures will rise through the day tomorrow with freezing levels reaching 4500’ sometime late tomorrow afternoon or evening.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-15 W

Trend and Timing:
The winds are expected to mellow out today and then shift easterly tomorrow.

JM

March 12, 2012

Weather short

Sorry, wasn't able to squeeze in a formal forecast today.   Tomorrow should be an epic day of powder with cool temperatures and plenty of snow.

Storms will continue to drive into the PNW throughout the week.  Get your turns in early - warmer air with freezing levels hitting 4-5K are expected on Thursday.

Be safe out there.

JM

6:15am Start Time for Tues. March 13th, 2012

March 11, 2012

8:00am Start Time for Monday March 12th, 2012

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/11/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Light snow will continue to fall in the mountains today. A strong storm will hit the coast late tonight and bring moderate to heavy snow to the mountains tomorrow.

Long-term: The NW jet stream will keep unstable weather in the forecast through all of next week. There will be the possibility of some rain later in the week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Sunday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .10
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm= .25

24hr total “of water = .25-.5

24hr Snow Total= 2-5

Trend and Timing:
Light snow will continue through the night. Snow will ramp up after 4am tomorrow with most of the accumulation happening during the day.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 20 High: 28
Freezing level: 3500’ 2000’

Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will continue to fall under cool NW flow aloft.
Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-15 WSW

Trend and Timing:
Most of the strong winds will be confined to the coast. East flow will develop tomorrow.

March 10, 2012

START TIME for SUNDAY: 8:00AM

Significant Snow.

Long range models indicate a strong NW flow storm track aimed at the upper west coast for the next 2 weeks.   We could see significant snow during the month of March.

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Huge storm forming off the coast

Check out the forecast model from Monday.  A very strong low pressure cell (hurricane strength) expected to hit the PNW coast Monday morning.  Not sure what this means for the mountains just yet, but the coast will be hammered with very strong +75mph winds. 

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March 9, 2012

8:00 am Start Time for Sat. March 10th, 2012

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/9/2012 Weather

General Discussion: The first in a series of fronts will arrive this afternoon. Rain turning to snow will be likely.

Long-term: The weekend will be filled with plenty of snow with another very strong low pressure system preparing to impact the PNW on Monday.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Friday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .5
“of additional water by 4am=.10
“of additional water by 12pm=.10

24hr total “of water = .5-.75

24hr Snow Total= 6-10

Trend and Timing:
It will be likely that the precipitation will start out as rain this afternoon. However, the rain should quickly turn to snow and continue through the night. There will be a short break between storms tomorrow with snow ramping back up tomorrow night. Storm totals from 4pm today through 4pm Sunday could exceed 2” of water. 12-24” of snow.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 26 High: 38
Freezing level: 5000’ 3500’

Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will slowly drop through the night. Freezing levels will keep descending throughout the weekend, perhaps reaching 2000’ or lower on Sunday.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-10 W gusty

Trend and Timing:
Westerly flow will continue throughout the weekend. High ridge top winds can be expected throughout this series of storms.

March 8, 2012

Start Time Friday---8:00am

Done Skiing?

I hope you are not done skiing yet - A NW flow storm cycle is developing.   POWDER.

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/8/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Another great sunny day in the mountains. High clouds are making their way east as tomorrow’s front begins its approach.

Long-term: A strong NW jet stream will drive several winter storms through the PNW starting tomorrow night. Snow totals by the end of the weekend could exceed 15”.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Thursday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= 0
“of additional water by 4am=0
“of additional water by 12pm= .10

24hr total “of water = .10

24hr Snow Total= trace

Trend and Timing:
The atmosphere will remain dry through the night. The next band of moisture is expected to arrive mid day tomorrow. We could see a little rain at the start, but it should quickly turn to snow by the time the main event hits later in the day. Moderate snow is expected to continue through the weekend.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 28 High: 34
Freezing level: 3500’ 5000’

Trend and Timing:
East flow this morning has kept the freezing levels from rising too fast today. Freezing levels will continue to rise today as more warm air makes its way north. Temps will quickly fall tomorrow afternoon/evening.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction

0-5 WSW

Trend and Timing:
East flow will weaken and then shift SW tomorrow.

March 7, 2012

Start Time Thursday---8:00am

Diurnal Temperature Variations

Diurnal temperature variation is a meteorological term that relates to the variation in temperature that occurs from the highs of the day to the cool of nights. If this cycle last for several days or even weeks, the melt freeze cycle can produce some amazing corn snow.   

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/7/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Good to see the sun. A couple of blue bird days are developing as high pressure settles over the region.

Long-term: A cold front expected to drop in on Friday night will bring a snowy weekend.

Snow Thoughts: Watch for high solar radiation to effect the recent 12-24” of snow sitting on the rain crust. Steeps will likely slide with pinwheels rolling about.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Wednesday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= 0
“of additional water by 4am=0
“of additional water by 12pm=0

24hr total “of water = 0

24hr Snow Total=0

Trend and Timing:
0

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 26 High: 40
Freezing level: 2000’ 6500’

Trend and Timing:
Warming will begin today with another cool and clear night ahead - diurnal fluctuation for you weather and snow geeks. Temperatures could easily break 40f tomorrow. A thermometer directed into the sun may even push the mercury to 50f.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-5 ESE

Trend and Timing:
Southerly flow along the upper ridges with easterly flow at the surface will develop today. Winds will shift SW on Friday.

March 6, 2012

Start Time Wednesday---8:00am

"The March Lion"

The North West Jet Stream seems to be content driving cold fronts down from the Gulf of Alaska.   The MM5 Isotach forecast model has a nice looking NW storm track starting late Friday and lasting into the following week.

 61(900x800) images (5,054,410 bytes)

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/6/2012 Weather

General Discussion: As expected, high pressure will begin to stabilize the atmosphere today producing clear and dry conditions through Friday.

Long-term: We may see plenty of sun with warm temperatures through Friday. Another cold front, powered by the NW jet stream, will begin another round of snow starting Friday and lasting through the weekend.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Tuesday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .10
“of additional water by 4am=0
“of additional water by 12pm=0

24hr total “of water = <.10

24hr Snow Total= Trace

Trend and Timing:
Radar shows that the convergence zone has shifted south to Snoqualmie Pass. Snow showers will diminish today with dry conditions developing tonight.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 14 High: 26
Freezing level: 1500’ 3000’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will remain very low through tomorrow, however, sun breaks could provide some significant radiant heat at times. Warm air advection will begin to rise surface temperatures tomorrow afternoon with freezing levels reaching +-6500’ or higher for Thursday and Friday.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
0-10 WNW

Trend and Timing:
Winds will shift N tonight. The general flow by Thursday will be southerly with east winds moving though at the surface.

March 5, 2012

Start Time Tuesday---8:00am

Ski Powda

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/5/2012 Weather
General Discussion: A fast moving cold front will bring a nice dose of snow to the mountain today. Looks like another great week of skiing/boarding shaping up.

Long-term: High pressure is expected to dry the air mass out beginning tomorrow. The middle of the week looks dry and warm with another front expected for the weekend.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Monday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .25
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm= 0

24hr total “of water = .25 - .5

24hr Snow Total= 2-5

Trend and Timing:
Most of the heavy snow will fall this morning with snow tapering to showers by this evening. A drying trend will begin around midnight with just light showers lingering through the early morning hours.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 16 High: 30
Freezing level: 4000’ 1000’

Trend and Timing:
Temperatures will quickly drop today as the front moves through. Freezing levels will remain low through tomorrow. Sunshine and > 6000’ freezing levels are expected on Wed/Thursday.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-15 WNW gust 20 -40

Trend and Timing:
Westerly winds will accompany this front as usual. Winds will become light and more from the NW overnight.

March 3, 2012

8:00am Start Time for Sunday, March 4th, 2012

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/3/2012 Weather

General Discussion: This warm, wet and windy weather will continue today. Tomorrow will be dry with a cold front bringing more snow on Monday.

Long-term: Our first taste of spring may occur next week with high pressure beginning to build on Tuesday. Long range models currently have the week finishing warm and dry.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Saturday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .5
“of additional water by 4am= <.10
“of additional water by 12pm= 0

24hr total “of water = .5+

24hr Snow Total= 2-5

Trend and Timing:
A drying trend will start after midnight with just a few lingering showers hanging around the crest tomorrow.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 30 High: 36
Freezing level: +-4500’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will hover right at or slightly above Pass level through tomorrow. Cooler temps will drop freezing levels on Monday.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
10- 20 W gusty

Trend and Timing:
These strong westerly winds are expected to shift SW later this afternoon/evening. Once that shift occurs, winds will diminish. We can expect light SW winds tomorrow with strengthening NW flow developing on Monday.

March 2, 2012

Start Time Saturday---8:00am

Funky Weather - Season changes perhaps?

With the large high pressure cell to our southwest,  the storm track lifts up and over and then descends along the PNW coast.   A stretched out tripple point with the cold front starting to occlude tips the funky weather meter a bit.  The changing season affects could be starting - look for a more broken storm track and a fickle jet stream in the next few weeks. 

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/2/2012 Weather

General Discussion: A warm front will bring snow and rising temperatures to the Pass today.

Long-term: Mild temperatures with light precipitation will fill the weekend. A strong cold front will bring snow to the mountains to start out the week.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Friday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= <.5
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm=.10

24hr total “of water = .5-.75

24hr Snow Total= 5-8

Trend and Timing:
Snow will ramp up today and fall through the night. Light mixed rain and snow will continue through the weekend.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 24 High: 36
Freezing level: 2500 4500’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will reach 4500’ sometime tomorrow morning. Temperatures will then slowly fall back below Pass level on Sunday.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-15 W

Trend and Timing:
Gusty periods (+-20mph) will be possible through the weekend, especially on the upper ridges.

March 1, 2012

Start Time Friday---8:00am

STEVENS PASS MOUNTAIN WEATHER

3/1/2012 Weather

General Discussion: Continued intermittent snow showers with sun breaks are on tap for today.

Long-term: Tomorrow a warm front will bring rising freezing levels and more precipitation to the mountains lasting through Saturday. Sunday and Monday looks dry and warm with a cold front expected to bring more snow on Tuesday.

24 hour Forecast Starting at NOON on Thursday

Cumulative Precipitation Totals:
“water by midnight= .25
“of additional water by 4am= .10
“of additional water by 12pm= .10

24hr total “of water = .5

24hr Snow Total= 3-6

Trend and Timing:
These intermittent snow showers will continue through the night. Snow will intensify after 12pm tomorrow.

Base Area Temperatures (F):
Low: 20 High: 24
Freezing level: +- 2500’

Trend and Timing:
Freezing levels will remain low through tomorrow. Warmer temperatures are expected to arrive tomorrow night with freezing levels reaching 4000’ early Saturday morning.

Winds Speed (mph)/Direction
5-10 WSW

Trend and Timing:
Westerly flow will continue through tomorrow. Higher wind gust will be possible along the upper ridges tomorrow.

8:00am Start for Friday 3/29/2024 No ABS

 Warm and dry weather is on the way.