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

MODERATE avalanche danger today for all elevations due to lingering wind slab and developing loose wet avalanche problems. Evaluate terrain and conditions carefully, especially near and above treeline where the wind slab problem exists.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Wind slabs have built over the past few days and SW to W winds strong enough to cause drifting snow remain ongoing. Human triggered wind slab avalanches remain possible today near treeline and above treeline mainly on NW-N-NE-E-SE-S aspects. Winds yesterday were shifty and created a mix of both scoured and wind loaded slopes in what are generally lee areas under SW winds. Some wind slabs could be soft while others could be firm.

    Look for signs of recently formed wind slabs such as cornice features and wind pillows. Identify and avoid areas where wind slabs exist.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Air temperatures rising above freezing will allow for natural and human triggered loose wet avalanche activity to start today and continue for the next several days. Loose wet avalanches will be possible on E-SE-S-SW-W aspects at all elevations and on NW-N-NE aspects at lower elevations.

    Expect to see widespread roller ball activity as snow begins to fall off of rocks and trees. Avoid slope 37 degrees and steeper in the vicinity of roller ball activity.

Regions covered