Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago.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

Highlights

Heavy snowfall on Monday and Moderate to Strong winds have built Wind Slabs on North and East slopes near treeline and in the alpine.  On Tuesday Wind Slab avalanches will continue to be likely on these slopes.  Begin your day with conservative terrain choices if you choose to ride on slopes that may hold wind deposited snow, and avoid steep unsupported slopes.  Below treeline Storm Slabs will begin to settle but avalanches may still be possible on Tuesday.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind Slab avalanches up to size 2 were observed on Monday (see picture).  These wind slabs will need time to settle, and will still be likely on Tuesday.  Signs of recent wind-loading include: recent cornice growth, variable textures and snow depths on slopes directly opposite or adjacent one another (ie shallow and textured vs. deep and smooth looking),and visible cracking as you move through wind drifted snow.

    (3/13/2023)

    Wind Slab R4D2 at Tam Rim, North facing slope.

     

    Photo: Jonas Tarlen

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    I didn't see a widespread Storm Slab problem on Monday.  Nonetheless, our most recent 6-9 inches of new snow is cohesive and heavy, and overlays slightly weaker snow from last week.  It is worth being cautious on very steep, unsupported slopes.

    (3/13/2023)

    Very shallow reactive Storm Slab on small test slope

    Photo: Gabriel Coler

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