Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Recent winds will continue creating slabs of wind blown snow in new areas.  These slabs of wind blown snow will most likely exist just below ridges, in gully features, and on open slopes.  Use caution if traveling in areas where this problem exists. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind scouring and wind textured snow surfaces were found yesterday throughout the forecast region.  More of this is expected for today in near and above treeline areas.  Winds have been variable, with NW to NE winds occurring post storm then last night a period of SE to SW winds in the strong to gale force range.  With soft snow still available for wind transport, blowing snow and wind scouring will continue.  Winds will shift to the W today and increase in speed and then to the NE late today, tonight, and through Tuesday.  This is expected to be a strong NE wind event with wind gusts over 70-80mph along Sierra ridges.  For today, new wind slab development could occur on any aspect in near and above treeline areas due to the variable wind speeds and directions.

    Look for blowing snow, new cornice formation, wind pillows, and snow surface clues as to where new wind slabs are forming.  Wind scouring is expected down to firm rain crust on wind exposed slopes which could pose travel hazards.  Better snow quality will exist in wind protected below treeline terrain.     

    (1/5/2025)

    Stronger than expected N-NE winds on Saturday night left wind scoured surfaces on many open areas.  This snow was blown to the other side of the ridge. 

    Photo: Sierra Avalanche Center

Regions covered