Avalanche forecast

Blues

Wallowa Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
3 · Considerable
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Highlights

The wind has drifted snow into sensitive slabs which will be reactive to the weight of any snow traveler.   Fresh wind slabs 1-2' thick will be most prominent near ridgelines on leeward aspects (N-NE-NW).  Avoid traveling on slopes that have signs of wind slab development including drifts, dune-like formations, cornices, or where shooting cracks are observed.  

This forecast is sponsored by Eagle Cap Mountain Guides.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    There's plenty of light fluffy snow available for transport from the recent snowfall.  Winds will redistribute this light snow and pack it into slabs which will be sensitive to the weight of a skier or rider.  If you observe shooting cracks or can feel upside-down snow (heavier on top, lighter below) you are looking at a wind slab.  Travel near and above the tree line will likely be very unpleasant today, as winds are forecasted in the mid 20's to 30's with stronger gusts.  

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    We have been observing poor snowpack structure, which is the equivalent to building your house on a weak foundation.  Each time we add a load (new snow or wind-drifted snow) the weak snow buried below the surface is tested.  Due to the persistent nature of this avalanche problem, we will likely be dealing with this issue for a while.  Because of the uncertainty of what it will take to trigger an avalanche on this weak layer avoiding slopes >30 degrees is important.  Conservative route selection, limiting your exposure, and increasing your margins are all recommended.   

Avalanche Discussion

With moderate to strong winds in the forecast for the next 24 hours avalanche danger will increase.   Triggering a persistent slab could result in a large avalanche that could bury or kill you.  Although we are all excited about the new snow, keep in mind there are still many trees, stumps, fence posts, and rocks buried close to the snow surface that could ruin your day or your season.  If you trigger a wind slab, there's a good chance you could release the entire season snowpack to the ground.  

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