Central Sierra Nevada

Avalanche problems

• 

  Loose Wet

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alpine
  • Treeline
  • Below treeline

  Likelihood

  Possible

  Size

  1–2

  Clear skis last night should have allowed enough heat to escape from the snowpack for a decent refreeze despite above-freezing temperatures in many places. Today's sun and warmer weather will work to melt this refreeze and cause wet loose snow to form on many slopes. In some places, the sun and warmth may melt the refrozen crust completely and expose the deep layer of wet snow below it. Once the refreeze crust melts, wet loose avalanches will become possible. Long steep slopes can produce larger wet loose avalanches, but smaller wet loose avalanches can still have consequences in areas with terrain traps like cliffs or creeks.

  Snow conditions could change from firm and supportable to wet and mushy in a short period of time. Pay attention to the terrain and conditions as you travel. If your travel plans include avalanche terrain, start early and finish before the snow gets wet and mushy. If you prefer to recreate in the wet snow, stick to lower-angle slopes without steep slopes above. Once the snow feels wet and unsupportable, it's time to move away from avalanche terrain onto less steep slopes.