Avalanche forecast

Mt Hood

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
4 · High
Below
4 · High
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Very dangerous avalanche conditions exist Friday. Heavy snowfall and extreme winds will make natural and human-triggered avalanches likely at all elevations. Avoid terrain where avalanches can start run and stop. This includes any slope over 35 degrees and lower-angle terrain that is connected to large open slopes higher on the mountain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    2

    Extreme west winds will quickly build fresh wind slabs and push them to the tipping point. Avoid avalanche terrain Friday. If you do travel in the mountains choose low angled slopes below 35 degrees that are not connected to larger open slopes at upper elevations. Winds will be strong enough to create wind slabs in unusual locations and possibly below treeline as well. Stiff and textured snow surfaces and shooting cracks in the snow are a sure sign that you could trigger a wind slab.

    (11/21/2020) Blowing and textured snow are a sign that you could trigger a windslab in this example photo.

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    1–2

    New snow will accumulate rapidly tonight and Friday. This fresh snowfall will accumulate above a freezing rain crust from Monday which may be an excellent sliding surface. Precipitation will be most intense in the morning hours. Remember than storm slabs are most likely during periods of intense snowfall. Watch for signs that you could trigger an avalanche such as shooting cracks in the snow, small natural avalanches and noticeable density changes in the recent snow. Stick to terrain below 35 degrees and avoid convex rolls and slopes above cliffs and creeks where even a small avalanche could have big consequences.

    (2/13/2021) This widely propagating storm slab occurred Saturday at Bennett Pass.

Avalanche Discussion

A freezing rain crust formed Monday up to roughly 6500-7000' from observations on both the north and south side of the mountain.  Up to 10" of snow accumulated above the 2/22 crust Monday night through Tuesday in wind-sheltered areas. As more heavy snowfall and extreme winds arrive slabs will run easily over Monday's rain crust.

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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