Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago.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

Highlights

Identify freshly windblown snow at upper elevations and near wind-exposed ridges by its firm or textured appearance and navigate around steep lee slopes where you find wind-blown snow accumulating.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Gusty ridgeline winds will form fresh, shallow wind slabs with incoming light snow. Expect wind slabs to be small and specific to locations like lee slopes near ridge crests. Higher elevation slopes and more wind-exposed areas will be the most likely place to find a fresh slab, but wind drifted snow may accumulate in some steep features at lower elevations. Look for actively blowing snow and use surface clues such as firm or textured snow to identify where a wind slab may have formed. If you see these signs navigate around features steeper than 35 degrees that are holding wind drifted snow.

    (12/12/2020) Textured and stiff snow forming small drifts near ridgecrests are where small wind slabs will be most likely.

Avalanche Discussion

Sun breaks are possible Monday. While there isn't enough snow to create a widespread loose wet avalanche problem, you may experience significant rollerball accumulation if you are on a steep and sun-exposed slope. Use caution near terrain traps such as cliffs and creeks, where these sluffs may be able to knock you over.

Similarly, small loose dry snow sluffs may be found above the recent melt-freeze crust on steep shaded and wind-sheltered slopes. While it's unlikely there will be enough snow in these loose dry avalanches to bury you, use caution around terrain traps where losing your balance could amplify the consequences.

The last major storm event ended on February 27th with drier conditions interspersed with light snowfall events through the beginning of March.  In the upper snowpack, you can still find a distinct freezing rain crust buried on 2/22.  This layer was the last interface that larger avalanches released down to in the Mt Hood area towards the end of February and the first few days of March.  

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.

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