Avalanche forecast

Elkhorns

Wallowa Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

The chances of triggering an avalanche will remain possible today, primarily at upper elevations in wind-exposed terrain.  Look for snow that has been stiffened by the wind, especially in more open terrain features as a sign of increased danger.  If you observe signs of unstable snow look for slopes less affected by the wind to increase your safety and improve riding quality.  

This forecast is sponsored by Quickhatch Provisions in Joseph, OR 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

     Dune-like formations, pillows, and fresh cornices are all visual clues the wind has been affecting the snow.  Use small test slopes to look for signs of cracking as evidence that you should avoid steeper and more consequential slopes.  Use extra caution around slopes leading into terrain traps, which could injure or bury a rider.  

    In many locations, the most recent snowfall is resting on a smooth crust, which provides an excellent bed surface.  The new snow needs time to bond to the old snow interface.  Although it may be difficult to find there are pockets of buried surface hoar beneath the snow that fell the night of 1/11.  

    (1/10/2024)

    Shooting cracks are a sign of unstable snow and one of the 5 Red Flags.

    Photo: Victor McNeil

Avalanche Discussion

New snow falling on???  Thanks to the recent observations we've received from the Northern Wallowas and Elkhorns.  It's good to keep in mind the changes that have occurred to the snow surface during the high pressure we've seen this week.  On more shaded aspects we've observed surface hoar and faceting, while on sunny slopes a crust has formed.  This will affect how well the new snow bonds or reacts to the new load of snow in the next 24 hours.  You will have to dig down to determine if the new snow is bonding to the old snow surfaces.  The next step is determining if you have stronger snow (slab) overlying weaker snow.  If this is the case look for safer terrain to recreate in.  

Beacon Training Park-Taylor Green:  A Huge thanks to everyone who helped us set up the beacon training park near the Taylor Green Warming Shelter.  If you would like to use the park, there's a black waterproof control box inside the warming shelter, hanging on the West Wall.  Take the box out towards the Beacon Training Park Banner, and flip the master switch to "on".  Once the box turns on, you can toggle 1-8 of the beacons to practice your search skills.  Once you strike the underlying target a beep sound will emit from the box.  Please do not dig up the targets!  

Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival-Bid on the Online Auction Now!!!

Join us for the 13th Annual Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival January 31-February 2nd. 

  • Jan. 31: Ski Film and Pie Auction @HQ in La Grande.  Doors open 6:00 PM Adults $10, Kids $5.  Come watch the new Matchstick Film Calm Beneath Castles and bid on pies and other desserts.  If you would like to bring a dessert for the auction please arrive at 6:00 PM.  
  • Feb. 1: Kip Rand Backcountry Race (Anthony Lakes) Race starts at 8 AM, show up at 7:45.  Companion Rescue Clinic 10 AM, Snow Pack Obs Clinic 1 PM.  Live music by Wanderlust 3:30 PM Main Lodge with raffle.  (You must show up 15 min early for clinics and race at EOBF tent on S. Side of Rental shop.)
  • Feb 2: Tour with WAC Staff:  Ski tour into Angell Basin to better understand how to safely travel in avalanche terrain.  Please consider purchasing raffle tickets, bidding on an auction item, or donating $50 to the Wallowa Avalanche Center if you are planning to attend this tour.

Regions covered