Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger exists in the upper elevations with Moderate danger at mid to lower elevations today. Snowfall intensity picked up last night leaving from 3-12” of new snow with the heaviest accumulations in Mammoth. Transporting Northeast winds will build sensitive Wind slab hazard on  NW-W-SW-S-SE aspects particularly in the alpine.  Also remain vigilant for a variety of new snow instabilities today such as Loose Dry sloughing and potential Storm slabs on All Aspects at all elevations. Good planning and route finding are key today!

 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Northeast winds will continue to load new low density snowfall to NW-W-SW-S-SE aspects, particularly in the alpine areas and as well at mid elevations today.  Equally, remain cognizant of cross-loaded features and previously loaded terrain from the initial SW wind patterns when the storm first hit the area. Observations in the upper alpine regions have been limited the past few days, so keep the avalanche ears perked up for signs of hazard, such as recent avalanche activity, actively transporting snow, and sensitive surface conditions under foot such as shooting cracks and collapsing of the snowpack.  Be on the lookout for fat looking deposits of new snow especially adjacent to ridgeline and in areas of complex terrain conducive to capturing windblown snow.

     

  • Loose Dry

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

    Over the course of the past two days the new storm snow has remained quite light and unconsolidated making for some good turns, but also has made for fast moving loose dry sloughing in steep and confined terrain on all aspects. Old snow surfaces of looser near faceted snow grains and a variety of firmer crusts and wind board have provided easy sliding surfaces for this dry powder.  Pay attention in steep and more technical terrain for this issue to potentially knock you off your feet or drag you into obstacles or terrain traps. All aspects particularly at mid to lower elevations are where you most likely will find these conditions.

  • Storm Slabs

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

    Although more consolidated denser storm slabs have not been observed the past two days, the addition of new snow overnight, a bit warmer temperatures and settlement over time may prove to be conducive to forming more cohesive sensitive storm slabs in areas prone to sliding. Pay attention on all aspects especially at the mid to lower elevations for these conditions. Check surface conditions throughout the day and make adjustments if you find the new snow becoming more reactive in slab form. Shooting cracks, audible whoompfing or fresh slab avalanche activity in areas not affected greatly be wind will be signs to look out for.

Avalanche Discussion

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RECENT OBSERVATIONS:

3/11 - Mammoth Area – Sherwins –small Loose Dry avalanche activity

3/11 - Mammoth Area – Lakes Basin – snow conditions

3/11 – Mammoth Area – Tele bowls – snow conditions

3/11 – Mammoth Area – Panorama Dome – snow profile

3/11 – Bishop Area –NF Bishop Creek -1-2” new snow

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