For a few days, we are getting a respite. No passes are closed. Avalanche danger on Friday, February 15 is down from the high and extreme levels we've witnessed in recent weeks. It will no doubt be back up in the future, if the second half of the winter is anything like the first.
Today, with the help of the avalanche control folks at the Crystal Mountain ski area, we were able to get an inside look at the snowpack that leads to avalanches.
Chris Morin was our guide through the history of this winter that's built up since mid-Novemember, layer by layer.
If you've been curious about just what goes into an avalanche, check our our video online - it's a scientific dig through 7 feet of snow.
In many ways, the Northwest has been at the center of this wild La Nina winter. Many of the nation's top avalanche forecasters and experts are based right here. The Pacific Marine Environmental Lab that tracks the La Nina conditions across the Pacific is based in Seattle at NOAA's Western Regional Center.
We'll keep you posted as the rest of this season plays out.

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