Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Recently wind-blown snow will maintain the possibility of wind slabs on lee slopes. Sun breaks will result in wet loose avalanche activity later in the day. Approach lee slopes with freshly wind-transported snow steeper than 35 degrees with caution and avoid slopes getting direct sun in the afternoon.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Wind slabs will form rapidly Wednesday and may run easily above a frozen crust that currently makes up the surface snow. Look for textured and firm snow on lee slopes as a sign you could trigger a wind slab avalanche. Steer around slopes steeper than 35 degrees directly below cornices and where you see snow drifted by the wind to avoid triggering a wind slab. Look for shooting cracks or fresh cornices as a sign that you could trigger an avalanche on a similar slope.

    (3/2/2021) Natural wind slabs at 9000 ft in wind-loaded start zones.

Avalanche Discussion

Snow surfaces have consolidated at Mt. Hood with cooler temperatures and strong winds. Recent snow will create fresh wind slabs at upper elevations and the sun will create the possibility of loose wet avalanches. Approach slopes over 35 degrees with caution. Direct sunshine may weaken the snow surface. Watch for wet snow surfaces and roller balls. If you see these signs, you could trigger a wet loose avalanche on sunny slopes steeper than 35 degrees. Use extra caution near terrain traps such as above cliffs and creeks.

Minimize your exposure to cornices if you travel on or below ridgelines. The sun has exposed rocks near ridgelines and on south and west-facing slopes. At low elevations, creeks may contain significant flow and snow bridges are beginning to become suspect.

As we continue into spring, we're experiencing a gradual transition from a colder layered snowpack to a wet spring snowpack. That transition takes place from the top down. If you dig down in the snow, pay attention to how deeply meltwater has percolated, and please consider sharing your finding on the public observations page. This will improve our ability to forecast wet avalanche problems as the spring snowpack evolves.

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

Regions covered