Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
3 · Considerable
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

A number of weak layers exist in the recent snow. Use caution on wind drifted slopes over 35 degrees and steer around steep start zones especially near ridgelines where you see evidence of wind loading. If you encounter rain or above freezing temperatures, choose lower angle slopes--wet avalanches may run easily on the stout crust below the surface.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2

    Recent windblown snow has formed wind slabs 1-2 feet deep on lee slopes. Several weak layers exist in the surface snow from periods of sunshine and light snow. All of this sits above mid-January's stout crust. Winds have been strong enough to transport snow, but not as intense as we are often accustomed to on Mt Hood. Many of our usual telltale signs of wind slabs (firm and textured snow surfaces) may not be obvious. Take the time to examine the bond of recent snow to older crusts before committing to slopes steeper than 35 degrees and steer around steep start zones near ridge crests when traveling on wind loaded slopes.

    Example: Wind textured snow surfaces and drifts like these serves as great clues that the wind affected the snowpack and may have formed wind slabs on nearby slopes.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1

    Snow levels are forecast to rise to 6000' or higher overnight Sunday and Monday morning. Below treeline, rain and/or warm temperatures will weaken the surface snow, which sits above a firm crust from mid-January. Wet avalanches will run easily on this layer. Choose slopes under 35 degrees if you see evidence of rain, roller balls on the surface of the snow, or trees dripping water and shedding snow. Use extra caution around gullies, above creeks, and cliff bands where even a small avalanche could have big consequences.

Avalanche Discussion

Mt. Hood picked up 6" of slightly denser snow in the last 36 hours with moderate winds above 7000 ft transporting significant snowfall. The recent snow sits above 10-15" of consolidating lower density snow that arrived in several installments over the course of last week. The stout mid-January crust is considered the new "ground" moving forward with a strong snowpack structure in place below this layer. Weak and faceted snow just above the stout rain crust was responsible for a number of avalanches Thursday-Saturday, but recent observations suggest these facets are gaining strength. The interface between recent snow and the solid crust is still worth investigating before committing to steep and open slopes.

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

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