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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Travel cautiously on wind drifted slopes steeper than 35 degrees and steer around steep start zones especially near ridgelines where you see evidence of windblown snow. 

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.

Avalanche Discussion

Light snow over the last several days has been easily transported by upper elevation winds. Fresh wind slabs of 1-2' are still growing. 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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