Eastside Region

LOWAvalanche Danger currently exists. Violent SW winds combined with a projected 1” of new snow today may build sensitive shallow wind deposits on Northerly-Easterly aspects at and above treeline. Continue to remain vigilant at  lower elevations below treeline on SE-S-SW aspects for shallow areas of unsupportable snow and small loose wet sloughs. Sunny skies later today and warm temperatures will drive warming of the sunny aspects especially in rocky and confined terrain.

If we get a an uptick in new snowfall this morning driven with SW winds, pay attention for thin wind slab development in terrain conducive to capturing wind transported snow. Northerly-Easterly slopes at and above tree line will be areas to be aware of, especially those adjacent to ridgeline, gullies, and convex roll-overs. With warm temperature and anticipated bright sunny conditions later in the day, also be on the lookout for loosening of snow on SE-S-SW aspects at  lower elevations. Locations with significant rock outcroppings or cliff bands that aid in absorbing heat and energy will be of most concern.  Cooling SW-S winds will help keep things in check, but sheltered areas that are absorbing solar input and heat with minimal cooling wind effects will be zones to be aware of. Although we did not receive quite as cold temperatures  and had a bit of heat trapping cloud cover last night,  the snowpack and solar aspects still should of received a decent overnight freeze. When in doubt regarding wet loose conditions, check the supportability of snow you’re travelling on, by taking your skis off and checking boot penetration. If you’re sinking beyond your boot top or further, it’s probably wise to navigate to cooler aspects or get off the slope.  Shady aspects up in the alpine are harboring firm conditions where crampons and ice axes are beneficial tools to have in the kit.

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RECENT OBSERVATIONS:

3/05 - Mammoth Area – S-Side Mammoth Mtn –softening of solars/transitional snow

3/05 - Mammoth Area – Mammoth Pass/San Joaquin Cyn–solars heating up

3/04 – Virginia Lakes - snow conditions

3/04 – Virginia Lakes - large cornice development

3/04 – Bishop Area –SF Bishop Creek –Loss of snow, variable conditions