Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering wet snow avalanches will be possible on Thursday at all elevations. If you observe surface snow becoming wet or slushy down to 6" or more, consider moving to lower angle terrain or more shaded slopes. In some terrain, avalanches could be large. Even small avalanches can run long distances on sustained steep slopes. Triggering an avalanchle that pushes you into terrain traps such as rocks, cliffs, and trees can lead to increased consequences. Overhanging cornices at ridge tops can break off naturally; it will be best to stay out from under cornices.

 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Low elevation areas will warm up into the low to mid 50's on Thursday, hence the all aspects for this problem below treeline. Surface snow on slopes that get direct sun throughout the day will also warm up, increasing the chances for wet loose avalanches. Monitor the surface snow throughout the day. If it starts to become wet, heavy, or slushy, then wet loose avalanches can happen. Watch for other signs that the snow surface is heating up, such as roller balls coming down steep slopes or recent wet loose avalanches as indicators that you can trigger an avalanche. 

    Archive Photo: Aaron Hartz

    Wet loose avalanches in steep terrain.

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2.5

    There were several reports of natural cornice breaks over the last day. Warm temperatures combined with sun tend to weaken cornices. It will be best to stay out from under cornices and remember that large cornice debris can travel long distances. 

    (4/9/2025) Public Observer

    Natural cornice break in the Tumalo Bowl. Near treeline, east aspect. The debris travelled most of the way down the bowl. 

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1–2

    This problem is trending to being unreactive but keep wind slabs in mind for another day. Isolated pockets in steep and extreme terrain are the places that come to mind. 

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