Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Incoming rain will bring on the potential for wet snow avalanches at all elevations. As rain turns to snow in the upper elevations, we may see avalanche activity initiating in wind drifted snow on north, east, and south facing terrain. If these conditions are present, be cautious traveling on slopes 30 degrees or steeper and especially above  traps such as cliffs, obstacles you can get knocked into, narrow gullys, or slopes that can lead to a long sliding fall.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    This one has timing involved and may or may not present itself of Saturday. If it isn't raining then it is not a problem. If the drops start falling, be aware of changes in the surface snow. As snow becomes wet and slushy it will be possible to trigger wet loose avalanches especially if surface snow becomes saturated down to ankle deep or more. The easy strategy is to go in if it starts raining. If you decide to test out your water proof layers, check your terrain choice and stay off the big steep slopes and avoid being above terrain traps. 

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Timing is the theme of the day and this one probably won't come into play until the late afternoon . As snow starts falling the wind will be moving it right away.  I do not expect any big deep wind slabs but shallow slabs may build on a variety of old snow surfaces. Monitor the depth of wind deposits; if they become 8" deep or more begin to adjust your terrain choice. Even small avalanches can lead to a bad outcome on sustatined steep slopes or above terrain traps. 

Avalanche Discussion

The problems listed above may or may not come into play. They are directly related to the weather. A light drizzle or a dusting of snow won't be enough to get things going. Use your monitoring skills and recognize if and when a problem is developing. Any avalanche activity will probably be on the small side but remember that sliding into trees, rocks, and other obstacles can make small avalanches dangerous. 

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