Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

LOW avalanche danger continues across the forecast region with no avalanche activity expected.  Early season conditions exist, normal caution is advised.

Avalanche problems

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Early season conditions continue with many obstacles such as rocks, bushes, logs, etc, that are exposed or barely buried under the thin snowpack.  The snowpack is mostly supportable which does provide useable conditions for over the snow recreation.  Recent strong winds have scoured many exposed areas leaving soft unconsolidated snow limited to wind protected northerly terrain.  Strong E winds forecasted for today at the higher elevations are expected to have limited snow transport, although some light blowing snow may occur.  Practice normal caution by having a travel plan, carrying avalanche rescue gear, and effectively communicating with your group.     

Avalanche Discussion

1-2 feet of supportable snowpack exists above 8600' in the Mt. Rose area, above 7000' along the northern Sierra Crest, and 8000' along the southern Sierra Crest.  Variable snow conditions are found with recent E wind scouring in open near and above treeline areas.  The faceting process continues with clear skies, cold nights, and low sun angles.  This is most apparent near the surface of the snowpack with near surface facets existing on wind protected northerly aspects.  These near surface facets along with some slightly buried surface hoar will have to be monitored and could present a future problem when we get our next storm cycle.

Regions covered