Observation: NWAC Forecaster

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Date:

April 15, 2023

Submitted:

April 15, 2023

Observer:

NWAC Forecaster - Joe Dellaporta

Zone or Region:

Mt Hood

Location:

South Side/Timberline

Recent Avalanches?

Yes

Cracking?

Isolated

Collapsing?

None Experienced

Advanced Information

Cloud Cover:

Mostly Cloudy

Temperature:

Below freezing°F

Wind:

Moderate , W

The morning started mild, calm, and partly cloudy at the trailhead. However, once above 6000 ft W winds picked up into the moderate range and clouds started moving in which kept snow surfaces firm at these higher elevations.

Spring is really starting to leave its mark on the Mt Hood zone. On Saturday I traveled on the south side and found firm, supportable travel below 9000 ft. At these elevations having ski crampons and the sharps kit was helpful. Above 9000 ft I found a more winter-like snowpack, snow available for transport, and generally more favorable travel conditions. Moderate W wind drifted snow at these elevations. Once near Crater Rock I did observe a crown from a recent ( 4/14) skier triggered avalanche on the Old Chute at approximately 10,000 ft on a SE aspect. This avalanche served as a reminder that it's still winter on the upper mountain despite the spring-like snowpack near the trailhead.

Problem	Location	Distribution	Sensitivity	Size	Comments
Wind Slab	N E S W	Isolated Specific Widespread	Unreactive Stubborn Reactive Touchy	D1 D1.5 D2 D2.5 D3 D3.5 D4 D4.5 D5	Comments: Confined to elevations above 9000 ft.

WordPress Lightbox