Just thougt I'd share this little poem with you. Mark Moore wrote it. He's a forecaster with the Northwest Avalanche Center. I think the poem really tells the story about weather in the Cascades through the end of the year. As more people venture into the backcountry of the Cascades, avalanche incidents are increasing, so it's always wise to make sure you know the forecast and what it means before you head out into the snow. Earlier this month a Colorado snow-shoer was killed in an avalanche, even though the danger was listed only as "considerable". A very sober reminder of how tenuous snow safety can be. And with more heavy mountain snow coming, the avalanche danger in the Cascades will be high this weekend. It's especially important to take care when snow conditions are at their best for skiing and boarding, because most of our avalanches occur during or within 24 hours of a new snowfall.
See you on the slopes and have fun and be safe in the snow.

Matt Zaffino
KGW Chief Meteorologist

And now the poem. I took the liberty of titling it.

Cold Lang Snow Synes
By Mark Moore/Northwest Avalanche Center
http://www.nwac.us/

It's three days before the end of the year,
And recent snows have changed gloom to cheer...
With more on the way spirits are soaring-
For the weather ahead will be anything but boring.

After a quick time of drying, the westerlies arrive,
And tonight and Friday should shift park to drive;
Heavy snow, high winds, we'll break but not bend,
Just need to get through a brief warming trend.

The easterly flow will help near the crest,
And will minimize the rain as that's for the best,
As we close the year and start out '06,
The weekend ahead looks snowy and brisk...

So enjoy these storms and the ones next week,
But stay aware of the danger and don't slide down the peak-
Keep checking for clues wherever you go,
For it's hard to enjoy if you're under the snow.

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