Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Look for pockets of wind-drifted snow at upper elevations on Tuesday. You may find these wind-drifted slabs on the leeward side of canyon walls, under cornices, or directly below rock and cliff bands on the upper mountain. In more exposed windward locations, you’ll likely encounter very firm travel thanks to a freezing rain crust - so equip yourself with traction to reduce the chance of a long sliding fall in these areas. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    If you find soft, dry snow at the highest elevations, you may also find a wind slab lurking nearby. We have uncertainty regarding the distribution of soft snow across the zone, but it may exist at upper elevations above the recent rain/snow line.

    Look for these wind slabs on leeward terrain features, below cornices, or at the base of rock and cliff bands. You can also look for rounded pillows of snow, textured surfaces, or fresh drifts to help you identify where the wind has been at work. And as always, pump the brakes and seek more sheltered slopes if you see shooting cracks or hear snow that sounds hollow like a drum. 

    (12/8/2023)

     Cornices will often point in the direction of wind-loaded slopes. Look for fresh drifts or pillow-like slabs to help you identify potentially problematic slopes. 

    Photo: Joseph Dellaporta

Avalanche Discussion

The recent atmospheric river brought rain extending up to 8000 ft (and maybe higher? Let us know by submitting an observation!) on the south side of the mountain. I found very firm travel in these wind-exposed, upper elevations. Ski crampons would sure have been helpful. At middle and lower elevations, I encountered widespread rain runnels and a saturated snowpack.  You can read my complete observation here. 

The Pacific Northwest is heading into a dry week. Many people may try to flock to the upper mountain this week, but be sure to equip yourself with the proper gear. As always, carry avalanche rescue gear and also consider packing crampons and an ice axe to reduce the chance of a long sliding fall. 

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