Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Increased winds yesterday created slabs of wind-blown snow in exposed areas that could remain reactive today.  Additional warming and strong sunshine could also create wet snow instabilities as daytime warming occurs.  Make a plan that accounts for today’s avalanche problems and address how to move around these areas of concern.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Winds yesterday exceeded forecasted amounts with blowing snow and wind slab avalanches reported.  These winds were variable anywhere from the NE to the S and reached speeds of 20 to 30mph with gusts over 40mph.  Winds have decreased overnight and are expected to remain light today before shifting to the SW this afternoon.  Wind slabs may remain reactive today in wind exposed upper elevation terrain.  These wind slabs formed easily with the low density recent storm snow with reported avalanches running full path.

    These wind slabs may have formed in unusual locations from the recent variable winds and changing directions.  Many gully and terrain features could be cross loaded.  Look for signs of previous or current wind transport.  Blowing snow, new cornice formation, and snow surface scouring will be clues to where these wind slabs may have formed.  Move carefully around these areas of concern.

    (2/23/2024)

    Avalanche debris from an intentionally triggered wind slab avalanche.  2' deep, 8900', N aspect.  National Geo Bowl, Sierra Crest.

  • Loose Wet

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

    Wet snow instabilities have been limited over the last couple days with increased cloud cover and winds.  Warmer temperatures are expected today with decreased winds and strong sunshine.  Wet loose avalanches will become possible as daytime warming occurs at all elevations.  Most wet snow instabilities are expected to be smaller roller balls and pinwheels, but larger wet loose avalanches could happen as additional warming occurs today.

    Roller balls and pinwheels could indicate that the surface snow is losing strength and that larger wet loose avalanches could become possible.  If the surface snow becomes wet and deep, it's time to change aspects or move to lower angle terrain.  Terrain traps could easily magnify the consequences of being caught in even a small wet loose avalanche.

    (2/23/2024)

    Small roller ball activity on SE aspect near 8,000'.  Silver Peak.

Regions covered