The terrain and weather in the can create ideal conditions for avalanches. Influenced by wind, temperature, snow and rain, the risk of avalanche can vary daily or even hourly. 

If you are headed to Hurricane Ridge or elsewhere in the high-country of the, always check current avalanche forecasts from the Northwest Avalanche Center website or by calling 206-526-6677 and check in at the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center for current local conditions. 

During the winter of 2007/2008, at least 9 recreationists were killed by avalanches in Washington State. Before you go out, take some time to learn more about avalanches and avalanche safety and rescue.

Other precautions:

• If avalanche conditions are rated "extreme", avoid all travel in avalanche terrain.
• Even when conditions are rated "low", avalanches can still occur on some slopes.
• Wear an avalanche beacon
• Carry a snow shovel and avalanche probe
• Practice using your beacon, shovel and probe frequently

If you or your group is caught in an avalanche,

• Ensure safety of survivors
• Place markers where victims were last seen
• Quickly search for clues downslope of the place victims where last seen
• Search the avalance debris below the last seen points by probing in a grid pattern with probes, ski tails or poles.
• Keep searching!
• Send any extra person for help

If you are caught in an avalanche, make swimming motions and try to keep yourself on top of the snow. As the snow begins to slow down, push the snow away from your face to create an air pocket.

Avalanches like this one can occur in the Hurricane Ridge area. If you are venturing outside of the designated ski area or parking lot, always check with a ranger or the ski patrol for the latest avalanche warnings and forecasts.