Central Sierra Nevada

Stiff slabs of wind-blown snow still exist near ridges and gullies, but causing one of these to break away from the snow below them has become more difficult. Triggering an avalanche has grown unlikely but may not be impossible. Talk with your partners to make plans that fit the group's goals and skills. Be willing to change plans if you see different conditions than expected or any signs of unstable snow.

Normal caution

The NE winds have left unevenly carved snow (sastrugi), scoured icy surfaces, and stiff, smooth slabs of wind-blown snow on most near and above treeline slopes. Variable wind-affected snow surfaces also extend into some open areas below treeline. While the forecast calls for the winds to increase again today, it looks like most of the snow available for transport has already moved, so new wind slab formation and blowing snow should remain limited. Triggering an avalanche has grown unlikely as the dense wind slabs have gained strength. Still, it may not be impossible on an isolated slope, especially in complex terrain around cliffs where an unsupported wind slab may exist, in couloirs, or in an isolated area where the slab exists on top of surface hoar. Large cornices also still linger above many slopes.

Soft, more consistent snow still exists in wind-sheltered terrain at lower elevation areas on northerly aspects. Make a plan with your group before departing into the backcountry.  Include every team member in the plan for the day and the decision-making process.  As always, pay attention to changing conditions and any isolated signs of instability. When traveling in avalanche terrain, travel through it one at a time and regroup in safe areas. End-of-the-day debriefs to discuss how your plans worked out can provide excellent learning opportunities.

Recent Observations:

• No new reports of avalanches have come in since  Jan 21.
• Despite strong winds up high yesterday, observers did not report seeing significant blowing snow. 
• Buried surface hoar - Snowpit tests from most locations around the forecast area indicate this layer is unreactive. Some tests have produced unstable results on this layer in isolated areas east of Luther Pass on 1/23 and 1/24.  
• Melt-freeze crust exists on the snow surface of many sun-exposed slopes.