Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon 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Out of date — this forecast expired 7 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

On Monday, it will still be possible to trigger an avalanche on north and east slopes at alpine elevations.  If you are heading up high, assess the snow conditions before committing to steep and unsupported slopes.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Our most recent snow was last Thursday, but Moderate winds at higher elevations have continued to blow snow onto north and east slopes.  I expect most wind slabs to be a bit stubborn, and probably isolated in the terrain, but it would be foolhardy to ride steep alpine slopes without considering the potential of wind slab avalanches.

    At lower elevations, calmer winds, warmer temperatures, and significant time since our last storm have minimized instabilities related to the wind.

Avalanche Discussion

It was sweet while it lasted, but last week's storm is becoming a thing of the past.  Our short January days, and weak winter sun, have meant that dry surface snow still lingers on the shadier slopes.  Elsewhere, riding conditions are becoming more variable.  Warm, sunny slopes are likely seeing a bit of melting snow, and I anticipate we may see small Wet Loose avalanches later in the week.

Thank you for all the observations folks have submitted during the last week!

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