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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Consequential avalanches are possible in terrain where the wind has deposited slabs of stiffened snow near and above the treeline. Loose avalanches will also be a concern in steep, unsupported terrain. Watch for signs of instability today, such as surface cracks and recent avalanche activity, and be ready for conditions to change throughout the day. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Yesterday’s storm brought a foot of new snow to the forecast area with light to moderate wind. Areas with unstable wind deposits will likely be isolated. However, fresh soft slabs will be larger and more sensitive as you move up in elevation. The areas of greatest concern will be the leeward sides of ridgelines, confined alpine couloirs, and cross-loaded depressions. Blowing snow, growing cornices, and natural avalanches will point to the most dangerous slopes. Shooting cracks in stiff, textured surface snow means you’ve found unstable wind slabs. Stick to lower-angled slopes and simple terrain to limit your exposure.  

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Up to 13" of low-density snow fell during yesterday’s storm with surprisingly light winds. Cold temperatures overnight have likely kept this new snow loose and unconsolidated. Loose surface sluffs may entrain enough snow to be concerning on steep, wind-protected slopes today. Loose-dry avalanches will be most problematic in areas with terrain features that elevate the consequences of an avalanche. This may include alpine couloirs, steep or extreme terrain, and around terrain traps like road cuts, creek beds, or cliff bands.

    (12/24/2024)

    Small Loose Dry avalanche.

    Photo: Steve Mace

Avalanche Discussion

It isn’t often we see a significant storm like this roll through the Eastern Sierra without extreme winds. While I’m not complaining, remember that it doesn’t take much wind to redistribute low-density snow. Don’t let powder fever lure you into trouble today. It will be important to monitor conditions closely throughout your tour. Be ready to retreat to more sheltered terrain or lower slope angles if you notice signs of growing hazards like blowing and drifting snow, stiff, hollow-feeling surfaces, and recent avalanche activity.

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