Avalanche forecast

Central Cascades

Central Oregon Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Keep an eye out for wind-drifted snow on the highest peaks, as you may find fresh slabs on northern and easterly aspects. Use ridgelines and low angle slopes to avoid this problem.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind slabs will be possible in the alpine, primarily on the highest peaks (likely above 9,000ft). I suspect wind slabs to be small; however, I am uncertain how much snow has fallen above our recent rain/snow line.  If you do travel to these areas, look for wind drifted snow below ridgelines and areas that catch snow. If you venture to these areas, use caution, especially in extreme terrain and unsupported slopes. Look for clues such as pillow-like features, wind-textured snow surface, and cracking in the snow. Use your pole or avalanche probe to assess for wind slab depths. I often use safe test slopes to search for instabilities. We still have a low snowpack and exposed hazards. Remember, these hazards can make the outcome of an avalanche worse.

Avalanche Discussion

On Friday, I toured out to Ball Butte. I found dense and wet snow in the upper snowpack, low visibility, and no new snow accumulation. It rained at least to the summit of Ball Butte, and likely higher. With temperatures cooling, the wet loose avalanche problem is trending down. However, in lower elevation areas, like Santiam Pass, keep an eye out for wet loose avalanche activity. If you see recent avalanches, roller balls, and slushy snow, stay clear of steep slopes.

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