Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Bottom Line

LOW avalanche hazard exists this morning while snow remains frozen however you can expect the hazard to rise to MODERATE as temperatures rise and surface snow begins to melt. Human triggered avalanche will be possible later in the day as solar warming loosens surface snow. Be particularly cautious on steep solar slopes, in areas near rock outcroppings, cliff bands, and tight couloirs where the effects of warming are amplified. Identify features of concern today and be on the lookout for areas of unstable moist snow.

Thank you to all who were able to join us for our final virtual education event of the 2020/21 season focusing on Springtime travel concerns. This event was recorded and is available to view on our YouTube channel!

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Expect surface snow to soften quickly today despite the superficial refreeze last night. Full sun and temperatures well above seasonal averages will work together to raise the avalanche hazard throughout the day. Do your own localized assessments, monitor surface warming closely, and be ready to retreat if surface melt becomes concerning.

    Expect more easterly terrain to warm first followed by due south aspects and finally westerly aspects as the sun moves through the sky. Be particularly cautious in areas where the snow is still in a state of transition such as higher elevations and aspects with indirect sun.  Areas near rock outcroppings, cliff bands, and tight couloirs where the effects of warming are amplified will also present elevated hazzards. Wet, unconsolidated surface snow, rollerballs and pinwheels, and increasing boot penetration are all signs of surface warming and may foreshadow larger point release avalanches.

Avalanche Discussion

As coverage continues to decrease across the range it remains important to remain vigilant when evaluating surface warming. Field observations continue to highlight the importance of timing with many solar aspects becoming moist and unstable by mid-morning. It is also important to consider that as slidable surfaces become more limited, particularly on solar aspects, so too are the options for escape once you have committed to a particular line.

An early start is always beneficial as the weather warms and the sun intensifies. Be aware of hazards that may reside above you and consider shifting to another objective if other parties are already above you. The transition from supportable and frozen to wet and unstable can happen very quickly. Remember that even a small slough can grow to a concerning size as it travels down the slope. This is particularly true in extreme or confined terrain where the consequences of a relatively small avalanche will be exaggerated. Monitor surface warming as you ascend and be ready to turn around if things become concerning. In addition, tools like boot and/or ski crampons and an ice ax may be critical tools depending on where you choose to travel today.

Recent Observations

-4/8- Virginia Lakes- surface warming on solar aspects, Basal facets on northerly aspects

-4/8- Mammoth Area- surface warming, small loose wet activity on the backside of MMSA

-4/8- McGee Creek- Loose wet activity, Near miss on Nevahbe ridge

-4/8- Bishop Area- Snow and weather observation.

-4/7- McGee creek, surface warming in the Wine Glass couloir

 

Regions covered