Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Modest amounts of new snow and continued strong winds will keep small pockets of unstable wind slabs top of mind today. Watch for blowing snow, textured snow surfaces and smooth, fresh drifts to clue you into problem areas, and be ready for increasing hazards if new snow is being added to the equation. Keep in mind that even a small avalanche can have elevated consequences in extreme or exposed terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Reactive wind slabs today are likely to be relatively thin and limited to isolated areas on leeward terrain features. Modest amounts of new snow overnight in the southern reaches of the forecast area and continued showers today will add some loose snow to the mix and may lead to more robust slab development in favorable areas. It will be crucial to conduct your own localized assessments and monitor new snow totals closely. Continued northeast winds will keep our focus on solar aspects today. Fresh drifting, hollow upside-down feeling snow, and uneven snow surfaces are all clues that indicate nearby wind deposits. Do your own localized assessments and be suspect of terrain features that encourage drifting, such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, alpine couloirs, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions. Keep in mind that even a relatively small piece of unstable snow can have elevated consequences in exposed or extreme terrain.

    (3/9/2024) Photo: Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

While avalanche concerns have become isolated in nature, surface facets are present on all aspects and at all elevations. This faceting process is good at breaking down crusts and making for a more enjoyable sliding experience, but it will also add some sensitivity to any fresh slab development. Another thing to consider today is that while the winds are decreasing to more reasonable speeds, they will be more productive at building concerning slabs as they drop. It will not be impossible to see hazard rise this afternoon, particularly if snow showers today outperform the forecast.

Variable and challenging surface conditions should also remain at the forefront of backcountry enthusiasts' minds. A fresh dusting of snow will not be enough to drastically change the sliding experience today. If you venture out into the backcountry, you are likely to encounter a wide variety of surfaces. Tools like boot and/or ski crampons and an ice ax may be necessary depending on where you wish to travel.  

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