Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

At low elevations where rain is falling, wet snow avalanches will be possible. As the snow falls at mid and upper elevations, avalanches in wind drifted snow will be possible primarily on northern and east facing slopes near and above treeline. Watch for signs of unstable snow and be aware of terrain features below you that can increase the consequence of getting caught in an avalanche. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    At low elevations, the overnight low temeratures above freezing combined with rain on Thursday will increase the chance of wet loose avalanches. Most avalanches will be small, but be cautious on steep slopes and above terrain traps such as constricted gully features, rocks, and cliffs. Monitor the surface snow for signs that indicate wet snow avalanches can happen. Roller balls and wet slushy snow to ankle deep or more, are good indicators of this problem coming on. 

  • Wind Slabs

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

    It has been a while since we have mentioned wind slabs. It's a flashback to winter. The wind will pick up as the snow falls and small shallow wind slabs will build. Isolated terrain features will accumulate more wind blown snow. Most wind slab avalanches will be very small, however it will be wise to monitor the depth of wind drifted snow. As wind deposits become deeper, avalanches can become bigger. A wind slab avalanche large enough to bury a person is unlikely, but remember avalanches in steep terrain and above terrain traps can have consequences. Danger associated with this problem will be greatest in the late afternoon. 

Regions covered