Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Multiple avalanches were reported yesterday.  Slabs of wind blown snow that formed during our recent storm may continue to be reactive today near ridges, in gully features, and on open slopes.  Identify where these wind slabs exist and move around any areas of concern.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Multiple human triggered wind slab avalanches were reported yesterday throughout the forecast region.  These wind slabs exist on top of a firm rain crust that has been an efficient bed surface for these wind slabs to slide on.  Some of these wind slab avalanches reported have been  large enough to bury a backcountry user.  This problem could continue today on steep wind loaded terrain below cornices, in gully features, or on open slopes.  Some redistribution of snow could be occurring in the most wind exposed locations as variable winds shift around from NW to NE.  Wind speeds have mostly stayed in the light to moderate range with new wind slab development on other aspects unlikely.

    Look for built out cornices, wind pillows, cracking in wind loaded areas, and snow surface clues as to where these wind slabs have formed.  Many exposed areas could be scoured back down to firm rain crust.  Cornices could remain fragile today and break further back than expected.   

    (1/4/2025)

    Human triggered wind slab avalanche reported yesterday.  Carson Pass area.

    Photo: Sierra Avalanche Center

Regions covered