Avalanche forecast

Northern Wallowas

Wallowa Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Wind slabs will be your primary avalanche problem to avoid today in the Northern Wallowas.  Shooting cracks and collapsing are two obvious signs the snowpack is unstable.  Avoid traveling on, around, or under steep slopes where the wind has stiffened the snow.  

This forecast is sponsored by Robert Brooks Painting in La Grande.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2.5

    Wind slabs will be reactive and likely today.  You don't want to get involved with a large windslab avalanche, which could release above you and relocate you into severe terrain.  All of the signs are pointing towards unstable snow, as Mother Nature cannot absorb this much new snow and wind-drifted snow in such a short time frame.   This is a good time to stick to low-angle slopes, in sheltered terrain.  

    (12/14/2024) Photo: Victor McNeil

Avalanche Discussion

Weekend Weather: There will be a lull in the stormy weather today, but winds will increase in the PM and another storm will hit us on Monday.  Forecasts are calling for 5" of snow on Monday, accompanied by strong winds.  

Snowpack Observations:  It's a wise decision to measure snow depths as you're getting out, identify crusts, and look for strong snow over weak snow.  You'll only be able to gather this information if you slow down, pull out your probe, and shovel, or at least dig a hasty pit with your hand or snowmobile track.  Without taking some time to determine what's going on beneath you, how will you ever know if the slopes you are traveling on, or underneath is safe?  Please also send us your observations and use #wallowaavalanchecenter.   Here is a recent observation from the Northern Wallowas, by WAC Forecaster Victor McNeil.  Tom Guthrie, former WAC forecaster also submitted an observation from 12/13.  

Scholarships:  Through the support of local businesses including Winding Waters River Expeditions, Eagle Cap Mountain Guides, The Avalanche Hour Podcast and the WAC we are currently offering submissions for 2 Motorized and 2 Non-Motorized scholarships.  These scholarships are to honor our avalanche forecasters Kip Rand and Nick Burks.  Submissions are due by December 15th, and if you've already signed up for a course with the WAC and receive a scholarship we'll refund your money.  You can apply the scholarship to an AIARE 1, 2, or rescue course offered by the WAC this winter.  Kip Rand Application Nick Burks Motorized Application 

Avalanche Awareness Presentations: 

  • December 19th, 5 PM Barley Browns Taproom: Join WAC Forecaster and EOU Professor Kelly McNeil as she presents her latest research projects combining Public Health and Avalanche Education.  

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