Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Wind slabs in isolated terrain features will be possible for Sunday. Wind slabs have formed on lee aspects near and above treeline. Dry loose activity will also be possible near and above treeline on steep terrain. If traveling into larger terrain, consider easing in. If in doubt, travel on terrain lower than 30 degrees. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Dry

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

    Natural and skier triggered dry loose avalanches were observed Saturday near Broken Top and Tam Rim on east and north facing terrain.

    With new snow from yesterday and cold temps, small dry loose avalanches will be possible for Sunday. This avalanche type starts at one point and entrains more snow as it moves down hill.  Be mindful in steep and exposed terrain, especially if there are any terrain traps below (cliffs, rocks, gulleys, trees). Consider using sluff management techniques. 

    Skier triggered dry loose avalanche.

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind Slabs will still be possible in isolated pockets of terrain on lee aspects near and above treeline.  If planning on traveling in larger terrain, consider easing in by assessing smaller test slopes on similiar elevation and aspect.  Wind slabs can look like smooth, rounded, lense and/or pillow shaped. Look for signs such as recent avalanches and/or cracking while traveling. 

    A few skier triggered wind slabs were observed on Saturday and I would suspect this could still be possible for Sunday.  Several older and larger wind slabs were found in the Broken Top and Tam Rim area. Although trending to be stubborn, isolated features can be prone to more wind loading. 

Regions covered