Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

It will be unlikely to trigger an avalanche on Thursday, however if you do trigger an avalanche in isolated terrain it can be large. We have a sizeable slab over a weak layer of surface hoar that has been found on northerly and easterly facing slopes. Although this weak layer is becoming less reactive, it is something to keep in mind especially on steep shaded slopes and evaluating the snowpack before travelling in consequential terrain is key.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    The buried surface hoar COAC has been tracking is now 45-50 cm (18-20") deep in the snowpack. No avalanches have been reported on this layer in the last few days. With time after the last significant snowfall, this layer is becoming less reactive. This is a low likelihood and potentially high consequence situation. Although unlikely, initiating a slab avalanche on this layer could propagate wide and be large enough to do some damage to a person. The presence of buried surface hoar has been found on various aspects through the northerly and easterly slopes at a variety of elevations, but it is not everywhere. It is a good time to use those snowpack evaluation skills and check on the presence and reactivity of this layer before travelling on slopes with consequence. 

Avalanche Discussion

The snowpack varies from 100 to 150 cm (40-60") throughout the region. Plenty of good riding can still be found especailly on shaded slopes. Remember, if you lack confidence in the snowpack or your ability to judge the stability of the snowpack you can avoid most avalanche danger by travelling on slopes less than 30 degrees steep. There are a lot of great options out there in the Central Cascades zone that are not in avalanche terrain. The COAC field team will continue to monitor the buried surface hoar layer.

Always be aware of signs of unstable snow such as collapses, whumphing noises, cracking in the upper snow pack or slab over a weak layer, and recent avalanches. If you observe signs of unstable snow, stick to low angle terrain options less than 30 degrees.

Regions covered