Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

You can find and trigger a shallow wind slab avalanche on wind loaded slopes.  Using visual clues, observe where the recent snow drifted last night and avoid steep open lee slopes at upper elevations. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    3 inches of snow accumulated overnight.  Winds started light and picked up with this light snowfall, forming isolated pockets of soft wind or storm slab that were 12+ inches deep.   Reports from this morning were that slabs were easily triggered and propagating well on NE aspects near and above treeline.  Use visual clues to track which slopes might be wind-loaded.  Look for recently formed pillows and drifts. Avoid steep open lee slopes where winds slabs are likely to live and be triggered.    

Avalanche Discussion

Previous discussion: After nearly a week of clear and above freezing temperatures along with periods of strong E-SE winds, a weak weather system will arrive tonight and have little impact on avalanche conditions.  1-3" of snow near and above treeline should build over a mix of wind textured snow, stripped surfaces, surface crusts and re-freezing wet surface snow. No new or recent avalanches have been reported and it's likely we'll have to wait until the storm cycle kicks in again during the upcoming week for significant new avalanche concerns to return. 

Surface conditions and snow depths vary greatly by elevation and position on the mountain.  At mid-elevations on the south side of Mt Hood, snow depths average around 40-50". Conversely the NE side remains shallow with 2-30" common near treeline.  In areas with low snow cover, early season conditions exist. It's a long season so use care to avoid stumps, rocks, open creeks, and other early-season hazards. 

If you choose to travel in alpine terrain where we do not receive consistent snow and avalanche information, always carry avalanche rescue equipment and be prepared to make your own assessments.

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