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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Out of date — this forecast expired 7 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

A short period of LOW avalanche danger will exist while the snow remains supportable early this morning. The danger will quickly increase to MODERATE as loose wet avalanche problems become possible due to warm temperatures, strong sunshine, and a weak overnight refreeze. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Some areas may not have experienced much of a refreeze last night. In those areas that did, the refreeze should have been weak. Rapid warming and strong sunshine today will melt through this thin refreeze quickly leaving deep loose wet snow on most slopes. Loose wet avalanches will become possible on steep slopes as soon as the surface crust melts. Some of these could entrain enough snow to have consequences for backcountry travelers.

    If there is a window for supportable melt/freeze conditions today, it will be short. Rollerballs, pinwheels, and boot-top deep wet snow can herald deteriorating recreation conditions as well as larger loose wet avalanche activity. Once the snow starts becoming unsupportable, it is time to call it a day or move to low angle slopes.

Avalanche Discussion

* Yesterday observations from Mt. Judah and Rose Knob showed a weak refreeze at all elevations. By 10 am many slopes had already become unsupportable and held shin to knee deep wet snow.

* Ski cuts on Judah triggered small roller balls on steep slopes.

* Widespread loose wet avalanche activity has occurred since Monday.

Regions covered