Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

For Sunday human triggered avalanches will be possible near and above treeline. Wind slabs forming on lee aspects (below ridgelines and accumulation zones) will be the main avalanche problem to manage. Avoid wind loaded slopes with smooth, rounded, dome like features often below ridgeline. If slabs are encountered, move to safer slopes lower than 30 degree.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    On Saturday I observed one skier trigger wind slab on a NE aspect (size D1) near treeline at Tam Rim. Winds were strong and sustained from the west and wind loading was observed throughout the day at higher elevations on Saturday. I suspect wind slabs will continue to grow Saturday night and into Sunday. 

    This Sunday be on the look out for wind slabs. Look for red flags such as shooting cracks while traveling, and consider easing into terrain by starting on less consequential and lower angle slopes. Look for small/safe test slopes to stomp on to assess for slab release and/or cracking.  If wind slabs are encountered, limit your exposure to avalanche terrain by seeking lower angle slopes (terrain lower than 30 degrees) and/or move to areas without wind slabs. Wind slabs are most reactive during or immediatly after a storm. It is best to give wind slabs a day or two to adjust and become less reactive. Remeber that wind can accumulate new snow 3-5x more in depth. 

     

Avalanche Discussion

Saturday we had around 3" of new snow fall in our local mountains and another1"-3" expected for Saturday night/early Sunday. We also had strong west winds throughout the day that moved alot of snow to lee aspects. Due to the nature of strong winds, we could see wind slabs form farther down slopes than usual. 

Regions covered