Avalanche forecast

Elkhorns

Wallowa Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Two days of freezing temperatures have improved the stability of the snowpack. As temperatures increase today, so will the chances of wet-loose avalanches. Move off of very steep, sun-affected slopes if you see roller-balls or experience wet, unconsolidated snow surfaces.

This forecast is sponsored by Quickhatch Provisions of Joseph, OR.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Two days of freezing temperatures have created a stout, supportable crust on most snow surfaces in the region. Today, warming temperatures and sun exposure will start to chip away at the stability of the snow surface, and later in the afternoon, wet-loose avalanches will be possible. 

    Stay vigilant when travelling on very steep, rocky, and sun-exposed terrain later today. If you see new roller-balls or experience slushy, unconsolidated snow that you sink into, move to less steep and consequential terrain.

Avalanche Discussion

If you are travelling in the mountains today, be prepared for variable snow surfaces, including very firm and slick conditions in the morning and in shaded areas, as well as recently melted out obstacles like rocks and stumps. These will likely pose the greatest risk while travelling in the mountains today.

As we continue to see above-freezing temperatures, look out for large cornices along exposed ridgelines. Give corniced ridgelines a wide berth, and minimize your exposure time if you must travel underneath overhanging cornices.  

Timing and preparedness is critical in springtime adventures. Pre-plan your travel routes and have the right equipment for the expected conditions.  It is important to recognize that warmed snow surfaces can become firm and slick when they refreeze. Consider carrying crampons and an ice axe if you plan to travel over refrozen surfaces- especially in terrain of consequence. 

Let's paint this picture together.  Let us know what you are seeing out there through an observation.  It doesn't need to be complex or technical- just a few pictures and a description of what you encountered is super helpful to forecasters.  

Beacon Parks: The beacon park at Salt Creek Summit snopark outside of Joseph, OR has been shut down for the season. The beacon training park at Anthony Lakes (across from the ski lift on Mud Lake) will remain open as long as there is enough snow.

Regions covered