Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Avalanche hazard is expected to rise quickly to MODERATE at all elevations today. Partly cloudy skies and overnight temperatures likely led to a weak refreeze.  Be particularly cautious on long steep solar slopes, at lower elevations on ALL aspects, and 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.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Partly cloudy skies and overnight temperatures likely led to a weak refreeze last night and you can expect the transition to occur quickly once the sun hits the snow.  moderate winds may slow the transition in the alpine particularly if speeds outperform the forecast, however 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 southerly facing couloirs where the effects of warming are amplified will also present elevated hazards. Wet, sticky snow surface, rollerballs and pinwheels, and increasing boot penetration are all signs of surface warming and may foreshadow larger point release avalanches.

Avalanche Discussion

In addition to wet instabilities on solar aspects, Recent observations are highlighting punchy unconsolidated moist snow at lower elevations even on more shaded slopes. This has a couple of implications for the backcountry enthusiast. First, moving in this type of snow can be challenging, and previously buried obstacles like fallen trees, rocks, and creek crossing are starting to show their teeth again. Move slowly and be kind to those knees! Second, it will be worth considering the potential of loose wet sloughs on steeper slopes on more northerly aspects that are not receiving direct sun.

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. Monitor surface warming as you ascend the slope and be ready to turn around if things become concerning. In addition, tools like tennis shoes, boot and/or ski crampons, and an ice ax may be crucial depending on where you choose to travel today.

Recent Observations

-4/6-Lee Vining area- Solar warming on the east face of East peak, small loose wet avalanche

-4/6- June Lake Area- Solar warming in the Negatives

-4/6- Mammoth Area- Snowpit from Minaret vista

-4/5- Snow and weather observation, Lakes Basin

Regions covered