Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Windblown snow will continue to deepen existing wind slabs. Look for an avoid lee slopes accumulating wind transported snow. Choose terrain below 35 degrees where you see evidence of wind transported snow such as active blowing snow or firm and textured snow surfaces.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    West winds have created fresh wind slabs from new snow received Friday. Treat large open slopes (and slopes below them) with caution. Avoid travel on lee slopes over 35 degrees where you see evidence of wind transport. Shooting cracks in the snow and firm or textured snow surfaces are your best clues you could trigger a wind slab--heed these clues by avoiding lee slopes over 35 degrees and giving cornices wide berth. 

    (12/12/2020) Stiff, textured snow in obvious drifts like this are an example of wind loaded slopes. If you see this type of accumulation you could trigger an avalanche on a similar slopes.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Sun breaks are in the forecast for Saturday and the late February sun is now strong enough to have an impact on the snow. If you are in terrain that is getting sunshine and you notice, roller balls on the snow surface, dripping water from trees, or a sudden increase in "tree-bombs" the sun is likely weakening the surface snow. If you observe these signs, choosing lower-angle terrain or seeking shaded slopes will help you avoid triggering a wet loose avalanche. Even a small wet loose avalanche can be surprisingly powerful. Use extra caution above creeks and cliffs where consequences can be magnified.

    (2/19/2021) Roller balls gathering snow like this are the earliest clue that the sun is weakening the snow surface and wet loose avalanche conditions are likely to follow.

Avalanche Discussion

Mt. Hood has picked up around 80" of snow since Thursday! A widespread avalanche cycle occurred Saturday. On Sunday, freezing rain created a quarter-inch freezing rain crust on the south side of the mountain and another natural avalanche cycle was observed Monday/Tuesday. 

As the snow keeps piling up, the very real threat of Snow Immersion and Suffocation (SIS) increases. Travel with a partner and maintain visual or audio contact. 

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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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