Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanche hazard will rise as new snow and strong winds continue to impact the forecast area. Expect wind-drifted slabs to grow in size and sensitivity as new snow accumulates. Reduce your exposure by sticking to more sheltered terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Snow accumulations over the past 24 hrs were minimal, with up to 4" of new snow recorded in the Mammoth area. It is likely that snow totals have been more substantial thus far along the Sierra crest. While concerning areas are likely isolated this morning, the size and sensitivity of avalanches will increase with continued snowfall. Wind slab avalanches are expected to become increasingly likely throughout the day and overnight as snow showers continue to impact the forecast area. Visibility may be poor during the stormy period, making it difficult to identify wind-loaded features. If you're traveling through fresh drifts or experience cracking underfoot, you have likely found the problem. Reduce your exposure by traveling in wind-protected areas and on gentler terrain, especially later this afternoon. 

    (1/4/2026)

    Small Wind slab avalanche- Intentionally triggered.

    1/4/26 - 8800' - NE Aspect

    Photo: Steve Mace

Avalanche Discussion

So far, this storm system has felt like a bit of an April Fool's joke. Precipitation has generally tracked north, and the most snow likely fell along the Sierra crest. New snow accumulations today will be variable across the region, with higher totals expected in the northern half of the forecast area and along the Sierra crest. Bring warm layers and monitor conditions closely as you travel today. Surface conditions will vary, and you can expect to find areas with soft new snow, dust on crust, or old, hard, frozen surfaces. In many areas, new snow from this system is falling on dry ground or in areas with thin and patchy coverage. While the avalanche hazard is unlikely to increase in these areas, obstacles like rocks and logs may become shallowly buried. Today, and over the next few days, expect sharks underfoot, and be cautious at lower elevations where snow cover was previously discontinuous.

Regions covered