Avalanche forecast

Blues

Wallowa Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

You are unlikely to trigger an avalanche today, and a generally stable snowpack exists at all elevations.  However, some snowpack and terrain evaluation is always recommended before committing to slopes steeper than 30 degrees. 

This forecast is sponsored by Robert Brooks Painting in La Grande, OR

Avalanche Discussion

Most of the forecast area has recently been under a strong daytime temperature inversion leading to warm (above 32F) temperatures at the highest elevations in the Blues. While less extreme than our other local mountain ranges, these warm temperatures combined with strong solar radiation from clear skies may moisten the surface snow on SE through W aspects today. If you see signs of a warming snow surface, such as pinwheels or rollerballs, wet loose avalanches may become possible later in the afternoon on very steep southerly aspects.  

Today's surface snow could be tomorrow's weak layer.  Today or any sunny days through the weekend, please let us know the surface conditions you find on what aspect and elevation: crusts, sugary faceted snow that bounces in your hand, or surface hoar.   Take a moment to look for the Jan. 3rd rain crust, and measure how deeply it's buried, how hard it is, and its thickness.  If you feel faceted (sugar snow) forming above/below the crust let us know. 

 

Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival-Bid on the Online Auction Now!!!

Join us for the 13th Annual Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival January 31-February 2nd. 

  • Jan. 31: Ski Film and Pie Auction @HQ in La Grande.  Doors open 6:00 PM Adults $10, Kids $5.  Come watch the new Matchstick Film Calm Beneath Castles and bid on pies and other desserts.  If you would like to bring a dessert for the auction please arrive at 6:00 PM.  
  • Feb. 1: Kip Rand Backcountry Race (Anthony Lakes) Race starts at 8 AM, show up at 7:45.  Companion Rescue Clinic 10 AM, Snow Pack Obs Clinic 1 PM.  Live music by Wanderlust 3:30 PM Main Lodge with raffle.  (You must show up 15 min early for clinics and race at EOBF tent on S. Side of Rental shop.)
  • Feb 2: Tour with WAC Staff:  Ski tour into Angell Basin to better understand how to safely travel in avalanche terrain.  Please consider purchasing raffle tickets, bidding on an auction item, or donating $50 to the Wallowa Avalanche Center if you are planning to attend this tour.

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