Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanche hazard is MODERATE at all elevations. WET-LOOSE Avalanches are a real concern today with continued very warm temperatures and a minimal to non-existent overnight freeze. Steep slopes on sunny aspects, especially those above terrain traps or within confined terrain, should be evaluated carefully.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Reports yesterday described very warm and moist surface conditions with many areas of the snowpack becoming completely unsupportable and presenting “trap-door” conditions. Loose cohesionless snow was observed at the upper most elevations (11,000ft) on steep Easterly aspects. Northerly aspects were also moist where residual transitioning winter snow was roller-balling, sticky, and a becoming a gloppy mess. Much of the forecast zone saw very minimal time periods of below freezing temperatures last night and today is forecast to be even hotter. Steeper terrain receiving direct impact from solar radiation, especially slopes above cliffs, gullies and depressions would be best to avoid. Other terrain features such as granite slab with residing shallow snowfields or tight confined southerly facing couloirs that are getting roasted by the sun and heat will be particular terrain features to carefully consider today.

Avalanche Discussion

Spring time conditions and associated hazards should be on the top of the list for riders this week. Although it’s been relatively warm all winter, this spike in temperatures is significant and well above average. Getting an early start is paramount right now and creek crossings, melting lakes, and terrain shedding rock and loose snow should be given a critical eye. Check for the supportability of snow by taking your ski off and stepping with your boot on to the surface- if you're sinking well beyond boot top, this is a good indication to move to cooler shadier aspects.

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