Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Expect an uptick in the avalanche danger Monday with small avalanches possible on specific terrain features. Fresh wind slabs have likely formed on lee slopes at higher elevations. Loose dry avalanches are possible in very steep or extreme terrain features.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Fresh and shallow wind slabs should form on lee slopes and below ridgelines Sunday night and Monday.  As you climb in elevation, feel for changes in the surface snow, probing for firm or even hollow sounding snow.  Steer around areas of stiffer wind affected snow and use caution on open slopes steeper than 35 degrees.

    In non-wind affected terrain, you can trigger small dry loose snow avalanches on very steep or extreme terrain features.  You may also see point releases and sluffs release during sunny periods. With a variety of weak snow grains found over a  firm crust,  dry loose avalanches or "sluffs" may run faster and further than you expect.  Don't let these predictable avalanches catch you off guard and knock you off your feet above cliff bands, tree bands, or other terrain traps. 

    Shallow wind slabs may form Sunday night in wind affected terrain.

Avalanche Discussion

With calm winds for much of Sunday, wind slabs never had a chance to form. That should change Sunday night as moderate W-SW winds transport the new snow near and above treeline. With several additional inches of snow likely Sunday night, storm totals in the Mt Hood area should land in the 4-8" range by Monday morning.  Sunshine will likely make an appearance between scattered snow showers Monday.  

Hiding under a new soft exterior you may find weak snow, thin breakable crusts, old avalanche debris and firm icy surfaces. If you find yourself above a wind stripped icy slope, make sure you have the skills and tools you need to prevent a fall from turning into a long and potentially dangerous slide. The lower and mid snowpack are considered strong with no deeper layers of concern. 

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

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