Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Assess for lingering reactivity in wind-drifted snow before committing to steep, alpine terrain. Scoured, icy surfaces in exposed terrain and challenging travel at lower elevations may be your most significant hazards. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Strong NW winds built a batch of stiff wind slabs over the weekend. These slabs are likely healing up, but I still wouldn’t fully trust them on unsupported features or on steep, consequential slopes, especially since they may rest over a slick crust in many start zones. Look for lingering signs of reactivity along test slopes or with the use of snowpack tests. Visually inspect leeward, east-facing terrain and look for pillowy slabs, textured surfaces, and recent cornice formation to help you identify where the wind has been at work. Shooting cracks, hollow-sounding snow, or hard over soft layering are good reasons to dial it back. 

    (1/11/2025)

    Crowns of multiple size two (large) natural avalanches that released on the NE-facing terrain around 8200 ft near Pulpit Rock on the N side of Mt Hood.

    Photo: Brandon Backman

Avalanche Discussion

The strong NW wind event from this past weekend left variable surfaces across the Mt Hood zone. You’ll find a mix of scoured icy surfaces, pockets of stiff drifted snow, and rough rattling travel at lower elevations. These variable conditions will likely be one of your most significant hazards during this stretch of high pressure. 

It's tough to think there is much soft snow for a wet loose avalanche problem. But if you get lucky enough to find softer surfaces along solar slopes, consider shifting your focus to wet snow instabilities as the day heats up. 

If you get out, let us know what you see by submitting a public observation. 

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