Avalanche forecast

Northern Wallowas

Wallowa Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
3 · Considerable
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Highlights

Dangerous avalanche conditions will be found today and likely tomorrow in the Northern Wallowas.  Significant snowfall today, accompanied by strong winds will quickly elevate the avalanche danger.   Give steep terrain and runout zones a wide berth, as avalanches may run further than you expect.  

The avalanche danger will continue to rise during the day as we pick up new snow and see continued windy conditions.  

This forecast is sponsored by Wallowa County Search and Rescue    

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    1–3

    Wind slabs will be reactive and very likely today.  You don't want to get involved with a large windslab avalanche, which could release above you and relocate you into severe terrain.  All of the signs are pointing towards unstable snow, as Mother Nature cannot absorb this much new snow and wind-drifted snow in such a short time frame.   This is a good time to stick to low-angle slopes, in sheltered terrain.  

    (1/14/2024) Photo: Victor McNeil

Avalanche Discussion

Weekend Weather: The Northern Wallowas are supposed to pick up a foot of snow today and winds will blow from the SW-W at the moderate to strong level, with extreme gusts.  

Snowpack Observations:  It's a wise decision to measure snow depths as you're getting out, identify crusts, and look for strong snow over weak snow.  You'll only be able to gather this information if you slow down, pull out your probe, and shovel, or at least dig a hasty pit with your hand or snowmobile track.  Without taking some time to determine what's going on beneath you, how will you ever know if the slopes you are traveling on, or underneath is safe?  Please also send us your observations and use #wallowaavalanchecenter.   Here is a recent observation from the Southern Wallowas, where a group of snowmobilers had a cornice collapse and trigger a small wind slab.  WAC Forecaster Victor McNeil also had an Observation from the Southwest Wallowas here.  

Scholarships:  Through the support of local businesses including Winding Waters River Expeditions, Eagle Cap Mountain Guides, The Avalanche Hour Podcast and the WAC we are currently offering submissions for 2 Motorized and 2 Non-Motorized scholarships.  These scholarships are to honor our avalanche forecasters Kip Rand and Nick Burks.  Submissions are due by December 15th, and if you've already signed up for a course with the WAC and receive a scholarship we'll refund your money.  You can apply the scholarship to an AIARE 1, 2, or rescue course offered by the WAC this winter.  Kip Rand Application Nick Burks Motorized Application 

Avalanche Awareness Presentations: 

  • December 19th, 5 PM Barley Browns Taproom: Join WAC Forecaster and EOU Professor Kelly McNeil as she presents her latest research projects combining Public Health and Avalanche Education.  

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