Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Consequential avalanches are possible in terrain where the wind has deposited slabs of stiffened snow near and above the treeline. Loose avalanches will also be a concern in steep, unsupported terrain. Watch for signs of instability today, such as surface cracks and recent avalanche activity. Build options into your field plan and approach features of concern with caution. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    An impactful storm system brought 7”-30” of new snow to the forecast area over the past 3 days with strong to extreme winds. The largest totals were observed in the northern half of the forecast area. Winds are expected to decrease to light speeds today and shift direction to the north, limiting the potential for continued slab development or natural avalanche activity.  However, fresh wind slabs may still be reactive to human triggers. Unstable wind deposits will be most concerning on the leeward sides of ridgelines, confined alpine couloirs, and cross-loaded depressions. Expect potential avalanches to be larger and more sensitive in the northern half of the forecast area and as you move up in elevation. Natural avalanches, fresh cornice growth, and textured snow surfaces will point to the most dangerous slopes. Shooting cracks in stiff, textured surface snow indicate that you’ve found unstable wind slabs. Stick to lower-angled slopes and simple terrain to limit your exposure.  

    (4/1/2025)

    Small wind slab avalanche - intentionally triggered - North aspect, Mammoth area- 9,600'

    Photo: Steve Mace

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Cold temperatures overnight have likely kept our new snow loose and unconsolidated in areas protected from the wind. Loose surface sluffs may entrain enough snow to be concerning on steep, sheltered slopes today. Loose-dry avalanches will be most problematic in areas with terrain features that elevate the consequences of an avalanche. This may include alpine couloirs, steep or extreme terrain, and around terrain traps like road cuts, creek beds, or cliff bands.

    Small Dry Loose avalanche on a steep test slope - Maommoth Area - NE aspect - near treeline

    Photo: Steve Mace

Avalanche Discussion

Spring is a time of transition that can bring quick changes to the weather and the snowpack. As more quiet weather returns following an impactful storm system, it will be important to take stock and monitor for changing conditions.

New snow will undoubtedly be a powerful draw for the backcountry enthusiast, but it's important to remember that it will take time for our new snow to settle. While natural activity will be unlikely today, it remains possible for humans to trigger a consequential avalanche. Monitor for signs of instability and approach steep terrain, large avalanche paths, and leeward terrain features with caution. If the sun comes out in full force today, it may be possible to see some Wet Loose activity on solar aspects. Similarly, if winds outperform the forecast, it won’t be impossible to see some fresh slab development in exposed areas near and above treeline.

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