Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Wet loose avalanches will increase in likelihood as temperatures warm today. Start and end your day early, and move to shadier or less-steep terrain with minimal overhead hazards as the surface becomes wet and slushy.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Yesterday, we saw several large wet loose avalanches release naturally. The mountains showed off a bit, and we got reports of rockfall and rockfall-triggered avalanches. Many of these avalanches ran on rocky north and east-facing slopes steeper than 35 degrees. 

    With temperatures expected to be downright hot yet again, continue to monitor the surface for warming. If the surface snow is becoming wet and slushy, and if your skis are beginning to penetrate deeply into it, it's likely you're traveling on some concerningly wet snow. As the surface transitions to mush, taper back and move to less-steep terrain. Consider adjusting your trip plans to reduce any time spent hanging out under steep slopes, especially later this afternoon.

    (3/22/2026)

    A large wet loose avalanche, likely triggered by rockfall. East aspect 10400'. Mono Jim Peak.

    Photo: Sean Smollen

  • Wet Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1.5–2.5

    Wet slabs are notoriously hard to predict. This is a problem we are spooked about, and it is worth keeping this problem in your group discussions. While the likelihood of involvement is low, the consequences may be severe. Continue to reduce your exposure to steep northerly terrain at high elevations where you're finding deep, wet snow at or near the surface.  

    We brought this problem to the menu because we had all the ingredients for large, wet slabs to fail on northerly aspects at middle and upper elevations. Through last week's historic warm-up, we expected to see a bit more natural activity, and as we tracked meltwater moving through the snowpack in our mid-elevation band, our uncertainty only increased. As of yesterday, we have finally confirmed that liquid water is no longer pooling on weak layers but is draining to the ground, at least in our near-treeline band. Our concern is now focused on our highest terrain. Above treeline, we've had variable freezes, thaws, and inversions; tracking the impact of meltwater has been difficult and inconsistent. Our uncertainty continues. 

    (2/24/2026)

    Large natural avalanche on Table Mountain. Northeast aspect 9800'.

    Photo: Greg Cunningham

Avalanche Discussion

Travel is currently a hazard in its own right. Deep, mushy snow is hard to move through and can be treacherous to descend. With the added risk of diminished coverage at low elevations, returning to your vehicle may injure you or damage your gear. Expect to remove your skis (and maybe even your boots) well before you reach the trailhead. Cautious descents are recommended.

Cornice failure, rockfall, and glide cracks have all been reported over the past few weeks of crazy. Our creeks are running high, and many of the hazards more typical of late spring or early summer are already present. Bring a cautious mindset, expect a dose of humility, and don't be afraid to turn the entourage around earlier than expected.

Variety is the spice of life, and this past month has been the spiciest on record. Savor it while you still can.

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