Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Triggering wet snow avalanches will be possible on Friday at all elevations. If you observe surface snow becoming wet or slushy down to 6" or more, consider moving to lower angle terrain or more shaded slopes. In some terrain, avalanches could be large. Even small avalanches can run long distances on sustained steep slopes. Triggering an avalanchle that pushes you into terrain traps such as rocks, cliffs, and trees can lead to increased consequences. Overhanging cornices at ridge tops can break off naturally; it will be best to stay out from under cornices.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Wet loose avalanches will once again be possible on Friday. Most avalanches will be small, but large avalanches are not out of the question especially in sustained steep terrain. 

    The key with this problem is monitoring conditions. Keep an eye on how the upper pack is responding to warm air temperature and sun exposure. If it starts to become wet, heavy, or slushy, then wet loose avalanches can happen. Watch for other signs that the snow surface is heating up, such as roller balls coming down steep slopes or recent wet loose avalanches as indicators that you can trigger an avalanche. 

    (4/10/2025) Photo: Aaron Hartz

    Recent wet loose avalanche debris on a southwest aspect above treeline. This avalanche was small (D1).

     

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2.5

    Cornices were falling down on Thursday. There are still some large ones at ridge tops hanging over slopes. Friday will be another warm day with sun. It will be best to avoid being under cornices.

    (4/10/2025) Photo: Aaron Hartz

    Large cornice debris on Thursday. A cornice broke at ridgetop on Moon Mountain. East northeast aspect, near treeline. One of the chunks was as big as a small car and gouged a 4 ft deep trench in the snow. 

     

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