Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanche danger will rise throughout Wednesday as more snow falls and wind speeds increase to Moderate.  Wind Slab avalanches will be possible on North and East slopes at treeline and will be likely on those same aspects in alpine terrain.  Monitor changing conditions throughout the day and if wind deposited snow starts getting deep, choose less consequential slopes or ride below treeline.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Snowfall is forecast to continue through Wednesday with a bit more accumulation than we saw on Tuesday.  Winds are expected to increase late in the morning.  There remains a lot of dry snow available for transport and any new snow is adding to this "pool".  The size and likelihood of Wind Slab avalanches will grow throughout the day.  Identify features of concern, and monitor changing conditions throughout the day.

    Remember that the wind moves freely through terrain that has been recently burned.  When I am riding in burns I expect conditions to mimic conditions at treeline (Wind Slabs and even Cornices can be present).

Avalanche Discussion

I heard several reports of avalanches during Monday night and Tuesday.  Some were the expected D1 Wind Slabs on North and East slopes.  I also saw an unverified post from the Mt Jefferson snow mobile club grooming team of a relatively large slide (D2?)  near Mackenzie Pass.

Regions covered