Mt Hood

Another round of NNW winds will form very shallow slabs at the highest elevations. These are unlikely to be large enough to harm you, but if you find blowing snow or pockets of firm snow over crusts, consider the consequence if a slab knocks you off your feet. Firm crusts and long uncontrolled falls remain your primary concern in most terrain.

Since taking the plunge on Thursday, temperatures have been in the 10s and 20s on Mt Hood, with little difference in the temperature between the base and the upper chair lifts at Mt Hood Meadows. In short, it has been cold.

A few points to keep in mind as this cold, dry, and relatively static pattern continues

• A fresh round of moderate NNW winds Saturday night into Sunday morning could create some fresh, very shallow slabs with redistribution on old firm snow or crusts. Look for active wind drifting or cracking snow surfaces as you travel to identify the problem. You're most likely these slabs at the very highest elevations. 
• While avalanche conditions are generally safe in other areas, taking the time to navigate around cornices and other terrain hazards.
• N-E aspects above 6500 ft are a mixed bag of wind-packed snow, scoured ice, sastrugi, and softer, faceting snow in the most sheltered-shaded pockets. 
• Firm crusts abound and they remain your greatest travel hazard on Sunday. Long sliding falls can lead to serious injuries or worse. Make sure you have "sharps" and the ability to use them to arrest a fall if you choose to cross a steep slope. Factor in extra time to navigate the terrain when all aspects are firm and slick. Temperatures rebounded into the mid-20s Friday afternoon and crusts remained firmly frozen around Mt Hood. Temperatures will be a touch warmer on Sunday, but light to moderate winds in the morning will keep surfaces firmly frozen. You're best chance of some softening is on S-W aspects in the afternoon. 
• Recent warm temperatures shed debris off rocks and trees, creating frozen "death cookies." Keep it slow if you encounter this snow texture to avoid risking an injury.

Let us know what you see. Submit an observation here. And for those in the Hood River area: Meet Your Forecasters on Wednesday evening - register here.