Mt Hood

The Bottom Line: Firm surface crusts exist on all aspects and elevations in this zone after several days of clear very mild weather, limiting the avalanche danger. Another sunny and warm day Tuesday will compete with breezy conditions limiting snow melt and Wet-Loose avalanche potential. Watch for deeper melting surface snow on steep sun-facing slopes sheltered from the wind.

A nearly 1-inch thick ice crust broke down on Saturday and Sunday with very warm temperatures and sunshine, however breezy winds Monday limited surface snowmelt and maintained firm conditions into the afternoon. Hard surface crusts also make for hazardous conditions from uncontrolled falls. These fall and slide conditions should continue Tuesday so use caution when traversing steep slopes with consequences below.

Recent cornices have been evident in the terrain. You are most likely to find them overhanging northerly slopes or on the edge of gully features. Don’t linger below these cornices on Tuesday as the sun begins to warm them.