Warm weather, heavy precipitation and high winds have created a high risk of backcountry avalanches on Mount Hood, forecasters say.

The Northwest Avalanche Center issued an avalanche warning for Mount Hood until 6 p.m. Saturday. The warning means there's a high risk of avalanche above, at and below the treeline. Travel through backcountry areas is not advisable, the center said.

Patrollers on the mountain have encountered low visibility and evidence of natural avalanches. Shifting winds have exposed slabs that could easily slide.

Earlier this week, a professional ski patroller was injured and partially buried in an avalanche. He was rescued, treated at a hospital and released.

The Northwest Avalanche Center is a collaboration between a nonprofit of the same name and the U.S. Forest Service's regional avalanche center. Its forecasts cover backcountry terrain, but not developed ski areas or highways.

-- Elliot Njus

enjus@oregonian.com

503-294-5034

@enjus