Avalanche strikes Cascades backcountry, no injuries reported March 3, 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail SEATTLE (AP) — A large, destructive avalanche struck at Source Lake in Alpental Valley, one of Washington state's most popular backcountry areas, weather officials said. The avalanche, which was about 800 feet (245 meters) wide and up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) deep, descended more than 2,000 feet (610 meters), crossed the lake and traveled 300 feet (90 meters) into a forest southeast of Seattle, KCPQ reported. No injuries were reported. The Northwest Avalanche Center believes the avalanche occurred naturally between Sunday afternoon and Monday morning, and was large enough to keep skiers and snowboarders inbounds on Tuesday. Debris covered common travel routes and a popular lunch spot. The center warned people to take the threat of more avalanches seriously.