Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

 The avalanche danger is gradually increasing in wind-loaded terrain as new snow continues to trickle in. Expect more heads-up conditions as you climb into the wind zone above 6000 ft. Dial back your slope angle once you notice active drifting, thick wind deposits, or cracks shooting out from your skis or feet. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    While many windward aspects are scoured to crusts, leeward slopes held shallow, reactive slabs on Monday. These slabs will continue to grow in depth and distribution as strong W winds drift low-density new snow into reactive slabs overnight and into Tuesday. The western flanks of the mountain will receive more snowfall with this pattern, so expect more dangerous conditions around Timberline or as you climb above 6000 ft into the wind zone. 

    These slabs will be most prevalent and thickest on east-facing terrain (NE-E-SE aspects), but don’t let your guard down on other off-aspects since terrain-driven winds like down- canyon winds can often create irregular loading. Look for drifting, textured surfaces, and sharp cornices as indicators of nearby wind slabs. You can tweak small test slopes to help you gauge slab reactivity. 

    Steer around steep wind-loaded start zones, especially if you’re noting obvious signs of instability like shooting cracks or recent avalanches. 

    (3/9/2026)

    Drifts ranged from 8-12 inches on Monday afternoon. Expect these to be thicker onTuesday. You can use your ski pole to probe for thicker, denser pockets. 

    Photo: Joe Dellaporta

Avalanche Discussion

We’re heading into a more active pattern. The precipitation amounts aren't that eye-popping yet, but cold temperatures should allow low-density snow to stack up on Tuesday. Wind speeds will be in prime transport speeds through the day, so expect wind slabs to be your primary avalanche concern. Wednesday and Thursday will bring heavier precipitation, rising snow levels, and a sharp rise in avalanche danger as a storm focuses in on the southern Washington Cascades and Mt. Hood. 

 Cooling temperatures have helped lock up the recent wet snow, so deeper weak layer concerns are minimal. Most avalanche activity will be confined within the new snow or run on the stout 3/9 crust. 

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