Avalanche forecast

Blues

Wallowa Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

You are unlikely to trigger an avalanche today, and a generally stable snowpack exists at all elevations.   The primary danger for backcountry travelers today is non-avalanche hazards, such as grabby/slick/variable snow surfaces that could cause injury.

This forecast is sponsored by the La Grande Snodrifters.  

Avalanche Discussion

What to Expect:  It may feel like groundhog day already, but a period of high pressure for multiple weeks in mid-January is quite common year to year.  If you have a tolerance for a diverse range of surface conditions, this can be a time to explore high in the alpine.  Continue to look for signs of instability, especially wind effect, as even a small avalanche in extreme terrain can be consequential.  It's not out of the question that you can still find some decent snow conditions, but traveling to and from any remaining soft snow could be your greatest adversary.   

As always be on the lookout for changing snow conditions, such as wind moving snow around to create fresh wind slabs.  On very steep slopes that are north-facing you could trigger a Dry Loose avalanche, because the surface snow has become weak and faceted.  

Observations:  Please send us your observations.  We have a new observation from the Blues, and also Southern Wallowas.  

Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival-Bid on the Online Auction Now!!!

Join us for the 13th Annual Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival January 31-February 2nd. 

  • Jan. 31: Ski Film and Pie Auction @HQ in La Grande.  Doors open 6:00 PM Adults $10, Kids $5.  Come watch the new Matchstick Film Calm Beneath Castles and bid on pies and other desserts.  If you would like to bring a dessert for the auction please arrive at 6:00 PM.  
  • Feb. 1: Kip Rand Backcountry Race (Anthony Lakes) Race starts at 8 AM, show up at 7:45.  Companion Rescue Clinic 10 AM, Snow Pack Obs Clinic 1 PM.  Live music by Wanderlust 3:30 PM Main Lodge with raffle.  (You must show up 15 min early for clinics and race at EOBF tent on S. Side of Rental shop.)
  • Feb 2: Tour with WAC Staff:  Ski tour into Angell Basin to better understand how to safely travel in avalanche terrain.  Please consider purchasing raffle tickets, bidding on an auction item, or donating $50 to the Wallowa Avalanche Center if you are planning to attend this tour.

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