Eastside Region
Lawinengefahr
Kernpunkte
LOW avalanche danger persists at all elevations. Continue to use safe travel techniques and be on the lookout for isolated areas of unstable snow. It is also advisable to bring the proper equipment hard, slick, and variable surface conditions exist on many aspects and at all elevations.
Thank you to everyone who was able to make it to our third virtual education event focusing on the unusually weak snowpack across the west, recent avalanche accidents, human factors, and a discussion about the current state of the snowpack on the eastside. This event was recorded and is available to view on our YouTube page!
Avalanche Discussion
After yesterday’s overcast skies, we can expect another day of full sun and warm temperatures today. With this return to spring-like conditions, it is advisable to be on the lookout for isolated areas of excessive surface melt on steep southerly aspects. The last couple of weeks of daily surface melt and strong nightly refreeze have had an impact on our snowpack. While many lower elevation areas have seen the snowpack diminish, solar aspects that still hold snow have largely transitioned to a more typical spring snowpack. Couple this with another strong refreeze last night and sizable loose wet activity will be pretty unlikely today however it will not be impossible. Pay particular attention to areas near cliff bands, exposed rocks, and in tight couloirs where warming will be exaggerated. Equipment like boot and/or ski crampons, and an ice ax are recommended if you decide to venture into steeper terrain today. Field reports also suggest ski crampons may be useful in many high-traffic areas on more northerly aspects as well where hard wind board and well-used skin tracks are making for slick ascents.
Recent Observations
-03/03 – June Lake area- Snowpack and weather observation