Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Wet Loose avalanches will be possible on sunny slopes, and even likely on the steepest, warmest slopes.  The likelihood and potential size of these wet avalanches increases throughout the day as the sun and warming temperatures melt more snow.  Give cornices plenty of space; after rain on Sunday and then three very warm days, they will only be weaker.

Avalanche problems

  • Cornices

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

    Cornice Collapses will be our number one avalanche concern on Wednesday.  While Wet Loose avalanches might be more likely, they will mostly be small and predictable.  Cornice Falls will be unpredictable, could be large, and could trigger Wet Loose avalanches beneath.  Steer clear of cornices on Wednesday.  On Tuesday, I observed large chunks that had fallen from the rain on Sunday night and then the warm weather since.  Since Sunday, they have only continued to weaken.

  • Loose Wet

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

    Although we should get some refreezing of the snow surface on Tuesday night, there is still a lot of wet snow in the upper snow pack.  Very warm temperatures and sunny skies on Wednesday morning will quickly melt the surface snow.  Time your riding for earlier than you otherwise might, and avoid steep sunny slopes once your boots are sinking more than a few inches into slushy snow (see picture).

    (3/25/2025)

    Sinking into wet slushy snow. 

    Photo: Gabriel Coler

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