Central Sierra Nevada

Early season conditions exist with a shallow snowpack and variable snow surface conditions present.  Avalanche activity remains unlikely at this point.  Use normal caution if traveling in the backcountry today.

Moderate SW ridgetop winds began yesterday and have been variable in speed overnight.  These winds will continue today before switching to NE overnight and into Monday.  Limited amounts of snow exists for wind transport with minor amounts of blowing snow possible for today.  Wind slab development is not expected.  

Above 7500', many parts of the forecast region have 2 to 3 feet of snow on NW-N-NE-E aspects.  There is generally more snow in the northern Sierra Crest portion of the forecast area than in the southern or eastern portions of the forecast area.  Melt-freeze conditions have occurred on sun exposed slopes, where snow coverage still exists.  Cold soft snow can be found on shaded slopes along with some wet snow forming on lower elevation northerly aspects.  Surface hoar has been observed throughout the forecast area, especially low on the peaks where cold air has pooled overnight.  Snow surface conditions vary greatly depending on aspect, elevation, and amount of previous tracks.

There are some unreactive weak layers to keep an eye on.  Weak faceted snow near the ground continues to linger in the eastern and southern portions of the forecast area above 8000-8500'.  These layers exist on NW-N-NE and in some isolated areas on E aspects.  On most shaded slopes, weak near surface facets exist.  Either of these weak layers have the potential to become problematic when our next storm arrives.  A shallow and variable snowpack is present in much of the forecast region.

Use normal caution if traveling in avalanche terrain in the backcountry.  Practice good travel techniques, carry avalanche rescue gear, and make a plan with your group before you head out.  Practice and form good habits now, so you and your group are prepared when winter and more challenging conditions return.