Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Strong winds in the last two days deposited snow in leeward terrain at upper elevations. Watch out for cohesive wind-pressed snow on steep slopes above terrain traps.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Alternating wind events following the last storm created wind slabs on most aspects near and above the treeline.  Slabs that formed from southwest winds during the storm on 2/5  have become stubborn and would need a large trigger like a cornice fall to release.  Smaller and more sensitive wind slabs were created by NE winds on 2/6 and in the early hours yesterday (2/7). At upper elevations, be suspect of features that encourage drifting such as the leeward sides of corniced ridgelines, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions. You can track the extent of this problem by periodically assessing surface snow as you move through terrain. Check for the presence and depth of cohesive layers. Look for shooting cracks around terrain features that block or re-direct winds, especially when transitioning to steeper terrain. Triggering even a small slab may have higher consequences if the slope is above a terrain trap.

Avalanche Discussion

Uncertainty today centers on the potential size and sensitivity of wind slabs. Over the past two days there have been no reports of human-triggered avalanches, but stability test results from 2/6 and 2/7 indicate that human triggering is still possible. A rider-triggered avalanche accident is most likely in extreme terrain.  However, a natural trigger like a cornice fall could still produce a large avalanche on recently wind-loaded slopes.

 

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