Blues

It is unlikely to trigger a large avalanche today.   Colder temperatures and increasing cloud cover will likely minimize any wet loose avalanche activity today.  A lack of low-elevation snow and frozen snow surfaces may make travel difficult at mid and upper elevations.  Avoid overhanging cornices along ridgelines.  

Today's forecast is sponsored by Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort.

Generally Stable Conditions: 

Snow levels rapidly taper below 5000' where threshold depth is not yet a concern. Little to no snow has been observed below 4000'. 

Low avalanche hazard exists today at all elevations. The ridge of high pressure that has been dominating our region has resulted in a strong temperature inversion.  Throughout the week, lower elevations have been under a thick blanket of valley fog with colder temperatures down low and warmer temperatures at higher elevations.   Want to escape the gloom of the inversion?   Gain some elevation.   Colder air is entering the region from the north, as a weak weather system will bring some high clouds to the region today.  This should limit any concerns of wet loose avalanche activity.  

Early Friday morning, reports of freezing drizzle were reported in areas of the Blues.  

Travel may be difficult on frozen/refrozen surfaces.  

Be prepared for challenging travel through firm snow.  Consider carrying an ice axe, ski/boot crampons, and know how to self-arrest.  

Be aware that colder temperatures and cloudier skies through the weekend will keep many surfaces firm and slick- especially on previously warmed slopes.  Exposed upper elevations hold a mixed bag of surface crusts, soft but weak surface snow, and wind-stiffened snow that is unlikely to be reactive as a wind slab.   Many ridgelines contain large cornices; Be conservative around these.   

Tollgate Trailfinders:  Check this website for updates on trail conditions in the Blues.  

The current snow surface will become a concern once buried: 

Clear, cold nights and a strong temperature gradient in the upper snowpack have weakened (or faceted) the upper six inches of the snow surface on mid- and upper-elevation Northwest, North, and East aspects.  On aspects that face towards the sun (Southeast - South - Southwest - West), a melt freeze crust exists.  

All of the lucky charms are in play here as winter enthusiasts continue to eagerly look to the long-range weather forecast with glimmers of hope.  We will eventually get a pattern change that brings more snow.  Riding conditions will improve, but avalanche hazard will rise once we put a slab of cohesive snow on the current surface.   

Recent Observations:  Check out recent observations from our four forecast zones.   Help reduce uncertainty and let us know what you are seeing in your backcountry travels:  Submit an observation here.  

• Southern Wallowas
• Northern Wallowas 
• Elkhorns 
• Blues

 

 

Upcoming Events:  14th Annual Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival Jan 30-Feb 1

Friday, January 30th: HQ (110 Depot Street) in La Grande, Pie auction and ski flick!  Doors open at 5:30 PM, Pie Auction at 6:30, and the movie starts at 7:00. Matchstick Productions film "After the Snowfall" at HQ in La Grande. Tickets are $15 at the door; kids are free. If you would like to bring a pie or dessert, email Rex Stanley, [email protected] 

Saturday, January 31st: Join us at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort for a full day of activities. Kip Rand memorial race kicks off at 8 AM, followed by a Companion Rescue Clinic at 10 AM and a Snow Science Clinic at 1 PM. We'll have a raffle and live auction in the main lodge in conjunction with music from High Pine Whiskey Yell later in the afternoon.  (You must pre-register for the race and clinics.)

Sunday, February 1st:  Tour with the WAC forecasters and staff. You must pre-register to attend, and spots are limited.  

Volunteers and raffle/auction items needed:  If you would like to volunteer, please email [email protected]. We are always looking for items to raffle and auction, and they don't have to relate directly to skiing or snowmobiling.  Please reach out if you have an item you'd like to donate.  

Snowmobile Riding Clinic for Snow Professionals Feb 26-27

If you are a snow professional who’s interested in building your snowmobile skills and technique, or are looking to advance to the next level, the Wallowa Avalanche Center is offering a 2-day clinic on February 26-27.  This clinic is open to Avalanche Forecasters, ski patrollers, ski guides, and other industry professionals.  Click here to learn more.