Central Sierra Nevada

Generally stable snowpack conditions exist on a regional scale. Any areas of unstable snow will be isolated. Use backcountry travel techniques that will minimize the consequences of a small and unexpected avalanche.

Normal caution

Stable snowpack conditions have been observed and reported from around the forecast area for the past few days. Decreasing cloud cover and above freezing air temperatures will allow for minor amounts of surface wet snow to form today. Long nights, short days, low sun angles, and relatively weak incoming solar radiation this time of year is expected to keep wet snow avalanche problems unlikely on a regional scale. With a warm start at elevation due to the air temperature inversion conditions, isolated small wet loose avalanches are not impossible on slopes with exposed rock and direct sun exposure. 

Use best practice terrain and travel management to minimize the consequences of a small unexpected avalanche. As with any day in the backcountry LOW danger or not, travel with a plan that provides appropriate safety margins. Focus on terrain and conditions that match the skills and goals of your group. Move through terrain in ways that minimize exposure to avalanche hazards, exposing only one person at a time to avalanche terrain and regrouping in safe zones outside of avalanche terrain and runout zones.

Recent Observations:

* Signs of wind slab avalanches and cornice collapses that occurred on January 3rd and 4th remain visible in many areas.

* Variable snow surface conditions exist across the forecast area including firm ice, recent new snow over supportable crust, wind-packed surfaces, semi-supportable snow surfaces, and very isolated pockets of powder.

* Large cornices are common along ridgelines, often with deep fissures behind them.