Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago.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

You can trigger a shallow fresh wind slab where moderate winds drift the snow 6" or deeper. As you ascend, colder snow and stronger wind transport will heighten the danger. Use signs of active and recent wind transport to avoid wind-loaded slopes steeper than 35 degrees.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Light snow and snow showers may bring 3-4" of new snow to Mt. Hood. Moderate winds with strong gusts form shallow slabs that may be more prevalent by the afternoon. Look for signs of punchy, textured, or blowing snow as you travel. If you see any of these orange flags, you are most likely to trigger a small avalanche on steep slopes in the lee of ridgelines where snowdrifts become 6" or deeper. Comparing the snow depth as you travel to the snow amounts we forecast will help you determine whether the problem may be more or less extensive than in the forecast.

    Example: Blowing snow deposits below ridgelines forming wind slabs. Photo: Shane Robinson

Avalanche Discussion

Thursday night and Friday we're still transitioning into a storm cycle. The minimal new snow arriving Thursday was not enough to create fresh wind slabs. The minimal fresh snow arriving at mild temperatures made some previously cold snow on northerly aspects a bit stickier. A melt-freeze crust up to 1 cm thick was firm Thursday morning and softened on most aspects. However, the well-settled upper snowpack remained resistant to wet loose avalanche activity over the last few days.

Wind slabs represent the primary avalanche problem in the terrain, but you could encounter very shallow loose wet avalanches if there are any prolonged sun breaks on Friday. Temperatures should be significantly cooler with winds keeping loose wet avalanches at bay in most areas, but the March sun is strong. Pay attention to the snow depth, seek shaded aspects, and reduce your exposure to steep slopes above if you start seeing signs of rollerball activity.

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 most recent interface for larger avalanche activity 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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