Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Cooler temperatures with increasing winds are forecasted for today.  Daytime warming may create some small loose wet instabilities in below and near treeline areas.  LOW avalanche danger exists at all elevations.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Decreasing temperatures and increasing NW-NE winds should limit most loose wet instabilities today.  Solar radiation should still soften the snow surface in wind protected areas in below and near treeline terrain, especially at the lower elevations.  Roller balls and pinwheels could occur in areas around rocks, cliffs, and gully features, but larger loose wet avalanches are unlikely today.  Areas of firm rain crust and firm snow will not soften today in wind exposed locations and could present travel concerns and fall hazards.  A variety of snow surface conditions will exist in the backcountry today.

Avalanche Discussion

* Yesterday was another day of strong to gale force NE winds.  Wind exposed areas are scoured with little to no available snow left for wind transport.  NE wind scouring has extended down to open below treeline areas.  Limited to no blowing snow was reported yesterday.

* Recent wind scouring has exposed previous firm rain crusts and created firm snow surfaces in near and above treeline areas.  Travel concerns and fall hazards could exist in these areas.

*  Cold unconsolidated snow can still be found in the most wind protected below treeline areas that are shaded and steep enough not to be receiving any direct sun.  Southerly aspects had 2'' of soft spring snow mid to late morning in wind protected terrain.  Transitional snow exists on most other aspects with a variety of crusts and wet snow.

Regions covered