URGENT UPDATE: Washington State transportation officials have just announced a groundbreaking shift in avalanche control at Snoqualmie Pass. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has replaced outdated artillery methods with a state-of-the-art remote-controlled avalanche control system, enhancing safety along the vital route for the 28,000 vehicles that traverse this area daily.
The new system, which was funded by a $1 million appropriation from the state Legislature, features six remote-controlled towers powered by solar panels. This innovative technology will allow crews to trigger controlled avalanches safely from a distance, significantly reducing the risks associated with traditional artillery methods, including a World War II-era Howitzer.
Previously, crews relied on artillery for avalanche control since the 1980s, which included using a recoilless rifle and an M60 tank, both of which have since been decommissioned. The outdated process required up to six hours of preparation and led to extended road closures while crews cleared the aftermath of the controlled blasts.
Tina Werner, a spokesperson for WSDOT, emphasized the urgency of this upgrade, stating, “This is a safer, more effective system than what we were previously using to get the job done.” The new technology promises to expedite the avalanche control process, allowing for road closures of just 30 minutes to 2 hours after a detonation, compared to the lengthy hours previously required.
Avalanche control supervisor John Stimberis also praised the new system, saying, “Now we’ll be able to force an avalanche in a controlled environment, potentially miles away.” This shift not only enhances the safety of the crew but also increases the efficacy of avalanche management, making it a significant development for drivers relying on Interstate 90.
Washington joins other states like Colorado, Utah, and California in adopting this advanced technology. The move is part of a broader trend toward modernizing avalanche control measures across the United States, highlighting the importance of safety in regions prone to heavy snowfall—averaging 450 inches annually at Snoqualmie Pass.
The new avalanche control system is expected to last at least 30 years, marking a significant investment in the safety and reliability of transportation in Washington State. As winter approaches, this development is set to have an immediate impact on travel safety, making it a noteworthy update for anyone planning to travel through this region.
Stay tuned for further updates as WSDOT implements this new technology, ensuring safer winter travel for all.
