Avalanche Forecast
Jan 31st, 2019–Feb 1st, 2019
Alpine
2:
Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1:
Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1:
Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2:
Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1:
Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1:
Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Regions: Mt Hood.
The Bottom Line: An incoming weather system may build shallow wind slabs above treeline Friday but should otherwise do little to change the generally safe avalanche conditions in the Mt. Hood area. If snowfall at higher elevations becomes heavier than forecast, avalanche conditions will deteriorate and you'll need to adjust your terrain choices appropriately.
Snow and Avalanche Discussion
Surface crusts have formed on most aspects and elevations following a week of dry, mild and sunny weather at the end of January. Avalanche conditions will tied to how quickly and at what elevations new snow avalanche problems develop over the next few days.
Right now we don't think we'll receive enough snow to markedly increase the avalanche hazard save for lee slopes above the rain-line in higher terrain. Pay attention if snowfall totals at higher elevations are higher than expected. You'll need to change your travel plans if you see conditions developing differently than forecast.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
Observe if winds are transporting snow and building fresh wind slabs above treeline Friday. Approach steep unsupported slopes with wind-drifted snow cautiously, feeling for firm or hollow sounding snow as a sign that wind slabs may be present. You can stay safe by traveling on ridges, wind-scoured areas and any slope less than 35 degrees.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: Alpine.
Likelihood: Possible
Expected Size: 1 - 1