Elkhorns

Generally stable conditions exist, and large avalanches are unlikely today. Small wind slabs may be lingering at upper elevations near ridgelines, and isolated wet loose avalanches may occur beneath cliff bands on very steep, southern aspects. Continue to use normal caution and safe habits while traveling in the backcountry today.

Today's forecast is sponsored by Baum Smith Attorneys at Law in La Grande, OR.

Current State of the Snowpack: We have received our first snow in weeks, and so far, the only instability we have seen has been new snow problems (wind slab and loose snow) in the top of our snowpack. This bodes well for now, however, forecasters and observers are still finding concerning structure with facets sandwiched between the melt-freeze crusts from 1/3, and now 2/8. We have not witnessed any avalanches on these layers, and snow stability tests have not yielded any propagation or sudden results, which can indicate stability. However, as the new snow settles into a more cohesive slab, and as we get more snow through the next week, we should be cautious before stepping out into extreme terrain and pause to see how the snowpack handles the additional load.

Observations: If you are out in the mountains, please send us an observation of what you saw. All observations are noteworthy and greatly help the forecasters. If you snapped some photos, please include those as well.  

Beacon Parks: Thank you to everyone who helped establish the beacon training park at Anthony Lakes (across from the ski lift on Mud Lake) and near the warming shelter at Salt Creek Summit snopark outside of Joseph, OR. These are free tools that we should all take advantage of.  

Upcoming Events:  Snowmobile Riding Clinic for Snow Professionals Feb 26-27

If you are a snow professional who’s interested in building your snowmobile skills and technique, or are looking to advance to the next level, the Wallowa Avalanche Center is offering a 2-day clinic on February 26-27.  This clinic is open to Avalanche Forecasters, ski patrollers, ski guides, and other industry professionals.  Click here to learn more.