Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago.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

Highlights

As new snow starts piling up, think about avoiding pockets of wind-drifted snow at mid and upper elevations. Use visual clues such as blowing snow or textured surfaces to help you identify problematic slopes.  Look for avalanche danger to increase through the day.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    An approaching storm will bring moderate precipitation and plenty of wind which will result in a fresh batch of shallow wind slabs. These newly forming slabs are expected to stay small and shallow, but they could run easily on the underlying slick crust at elevations below 9000 ft. You can typically find these slabs of the downwind side of ridges & canyons, below cornices, or on convex rollovers in the alpine. Pay attention to visual clues such as blowing snow or textured surfaces to help you identify slopes of concern. And as always, pump the brakes if you notice snow that feels hollow or see shooting cracks under your feet or skis. 

     

    (3/23/2023)

    Dial it back if you notice shooting cracks in drifted snow. 

    Photo: Joe Dellaporta

Avalanche Discussion

This incoming system is expected to hit the Mt Hood zone during the afternoon hours. At the start of the day you may notice low avalanche danger and generally safe conditions. However as the day progresses and snow starts falling, look for rising avalanche danger - especially during heavier periods of precipitation or if you notice new snow actively drifting. 

Spring is really starting to leave its mark on the Mt Hood zone. On Saturday I traveled on the south side and found firm, supportable travel below 9000 ft. At these elevations having ski crampons and the sharps kit was helpful. Above 9000 ft, I found a more winter-like snowpack and generally more favorable travel conditions. I did observe a crown from a recent skier triggered avalanche on the Old Chute at approximately 10,000 ft on a SE aspect. This avalanche served as a reminder that it's still winter on the upper mountain despite the spring-like snowpack near the trailhead. 

This is the last avalanche forecast of the season. Mountain weather forecasts will continue through April and be published at 230 PM each day. You can help your backcountry community by continuing to submit observations of avalanches, snow, and pertinent weather to our site.  Have a fun and safe spring recreating in the mountains! Thanks for a great winter! - Joe Dellaporta & Robert Hahn

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