Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Drifted snow will become increasingly reactive as Wednesday progresses. Initially shallow slabs will grow in size and extent as they build on steep lee slopes. They could become widespread at upper elevations late in the day, so dial back your terrain selection as the storm intensifies.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    We're expecting 4-6" of new snow over the next 24 hours. Snow will redistribute as it falls onto the lee sides of ridgelines, accumulating over shallow firm slabs that are a few days old. As waves of moisture and wind loading move through the area, slabs will build in size, extent, and reactivity. You may be able to weave your way through shallow pockets near ridgelines on one run, but need to retreat to more sheltered terrain as the day progresses. Assess representative slopes for slab character, cohesion, and the degree of propagation atop the crust or new/old snow interface. Navigate away from steep slopes with active wind loading or below fresh, sharp cornices; and dial back your terrain selection if you experience shooting cracks or signs of fresh avalanche activity.

    (1/22/2024)

    Heavy drifitng along Pea Gravel Ridge

    Photo: Joe Dellaporta

Avalanche Discussion

The storm cycle has been slow to start in the Mt Hood area, but it should start delivering more snow in the next 24 hours. 1-3" of snow fell Sunday night with strong winds plastering it into a patchwork of mostly unreactive slab. This means you should focus your attention on fresh instabilities.

Prior to the storm, we received many reports of firm, icy surfaces. Conditions should improve as new snow accumulates, but keep in mind that the snow could bond poorly to the crust and you could still take a long sliding fall in wind-scoured terrain.

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