Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanches  will continue to be possible near and above treeline for Sunday. Wind loading will occur on lee aspects often below ridgelines. Look for and avoid areas that have signs of wind loading such as smooth, rounded, or pillow like features. Cornices will also be a concern, so stay farther back than expected. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    On Saturday we observed several skier triggered wind slabs near treeline and cracking on steep wind loaded test slopes on north aspects.

    With stormy weather, new snow, and moderate/strong winds, we will continue to see the possibility of human triggered wind slabs in our forecasting zone. Wind slabs will likely form mid to upper elevation on lee aspects (below ridgelines and areas that catch blowing snow). For most areas, I would expect smaller slabs with larger ones possible on isolated terrain features. Wind can deposit and accumulate new snow 3-5x in depth.

    Monitor slab formation along your travels, and use small/safe test slopes to look for any cracking or slab formation. If in doubt, avoid terrain with evidence of wind slabs and/or stick to terrain lower than 30 degrees.

     

    (1/7/2023)

    Wind slab, likely human triggered, near treeline north aspect. Tam Rim.  

    Photo: E. Reed

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    On Saturday I found cornices easy to trigger.  With new snow and moderate winds, cornice growth will still be a concern for Sunday. Cornices can break off farther back than expected. Give yourself plently of distance from the edge of a cornice. If necessary, try to view from the side. Often wind slabs form below cornices. 

Avalanche Discussion

On Saturday I toured near treeline and found sustained southerly winds. I imagine winds were strong in the alpine. Wind loading was occuring on northern aspects. I found wind effected snow on windward aspects. It snowed lightly throughout the day, and the sky was mostly obscured or overcast. Besides wind slabs, I found the new snow to primarily be right side up. 

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