Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Low avalanche danger exists this morning.  As rapid warming occurs with intense sunshine, avalanche danger will rise to Moderate due to loose wet avalanche problems.  Get an early start to avoid most loose wet avalanche issues and have better travel conditions. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    A modest snow surface refreeze was expected overnight with near freezing temperatures and clear skies at most locations.  High temperatures today will be in the 50's above 7000' with light winds and intense March sun.  As the snow surface begins to melt, loose wet instabilities will become possible on E-SE-S-SW-W aspects as well as on northerly aspects that receive sun.  Most of these instabilities are expected to be small and in the form of roller balls but some could be larger and entrain more snow.

    Look for clues like roller balls, rapid warming, pinwheels, and deep unsupportable snow-these may indicate that larger loose wet avalanches are becoming more likely.  Terrain traps can increase the consequences of small loose wet activity.   

Avalanche Discussion

Observations were made yesterday on Rose Knob Peak (Mt. Rose area).  Above 8500', ski supportive spring snow existed in the late morning hours.  Most loose wet activity was in the form of roller balls in this area and was natural and skier triggered.  Below 8500' at 11am, roller ball activity became more widespread on steeper slopes.  Below 8000' at 11:30am, the snowpack was unsupportable with skis sinking in 6-8'' and boots up to knee deep with the snow being slow, sticky, and wet.

Regions covered