Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Avalanches large enough to bury or injure a person will be unlikely for Sunday, but another day of warm temperatures will result in the possibility of shallow surface instabilities on steep sunny slopes. If you notice signs of roller balling or snow penetration near your boot top, seek shaded slopes or lower angle terrain. As a reminder- even when avalanche danger is low, it is always wise to use safe travel techniques and carry avalanche rescue gear. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    With Sunday's forecast showing increasing cloud cover and moderate winds, these conditions could prevent this problem from gaining much momentum.. That being said, it is always essential to assess the condition of surface snow before choosing to travel on any steep and consequential terrain (and in this case, particularly on sunny slopes). If the snow becomes wet and slushy to ankle depth or more, these avalanches will start to increase in size. Even a small avalanche can have high consequence in the presence of terrain traps such as mid-slope cliffs and trees. Be mindful of the terrain below you and understand the consequences of what would happen if you got knocked off your feet while moving downhill.

    (3/7/2025)

    Natural Wet Loose avalanche on S facing slope at 9100' - release observed on Friday 3/7

    Photo: Stratton Matteson

Avalanche Discussion

With Sunday's continued warm temps, increased caution should be exercised along ridgelines and near cornices. Cornice strength will be weaker and could take less of a trigger to collapse than you may think.

On Saturday, exposed slopes above treeline had highly variable surface conditions. Strong SW winds up high created a variety of surface textures, and smooth snow surfaces were found only on more sheltered slopes. Bear in mind that you may save some time and energy if you keep your alpine ambitions in check, especially if you seek slopes that are exposed to wind.

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