Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired last year.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

Highlights

A winter storm bringing new snow and strong winds means you could trigger consequential avalanches by this afternoon. Natural avalanches and shooting cracks under your feet are red flags. As the danger rises, stepping back from steep terrain and wind-loaded slopes is the best way to manage the hazard.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Fresh wind slabs will grow in size and sensitivity throughout the day as new snow and strong southwest winds impact the forecast area. Expect fresh wind slabs to be larger and more sensitive as you gain elevation. The leeward sides of ridgelines, confined gully features, and cross-loaded depressions will hold the largest slabs. Blowing snow, growing cornices, and natural avalanches will point to the most dangerous slopes. Shooting cracks in stiff, textured surface snow means you’ve found unstable wind slabs.

    As the storm intensifies, poor visibility could make it hard to see what’s above you. Stick to lower-angled slopes and simple terrain without overhead hazard to minimize your exposure.

    (12/24/2024)

    Wind slab avalanche

    Photo: Steve Mace

  • Storm Slabs

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

    As snow accumulates today, storm instabilities, both slabs and sluffs, will become possible in steep sheltered terrain. Be cautious on or under steep slopes over 30° later in the day, and be aware of your exposure to terrain features that increase the consequences of avalanches. This includes road cuts, gully features, cliff bands, and mid-slope depressions. 

    (12/24/2024)

    Small Loose Dry avalanche.

    Photo: Steve Mace

Avalanche Discussion

Rising hazard today will be largely dependent on new snow accumulations. If snow totals underperform the forecast, avalanches may remain small in size. However, if we see the high end of forecasted snow, avalanches large enough to bury you will become likely near and above teeline by this afternoon.  Either way, you can expect the size and distribution of potential avalanches to increase as snowfall rates intensify. On a day like today, it is important to monitor the storm closely throughout the day, watch for signs of instability, and be ready to retreat to more simple terrain as the hazard increases.

Regions covered