Central Sierra Nevada
Avalanche danger
Highlights
Avalanches remain unlikely today. Isolated areas exist that hold very thin slabs of wind drifted snow. If you see signs of unstable snow, such as cracks in the snow surface or unexpected conditions, consider a different route, especially if venturing into high consequence terrain.
Avalanche Discussion
Isolated areas above 8,000' hold small, very shallow pockets of wind-drifted snow. These areas of very shallow wind slab are generally 1 to 2 inches thick. They might cause an issue when combined with a high consequence downslope hazard such as a cliff, rocks, or a terrain trap. Look for potential areas of concern, such as smooth looking areas filled in by wind drifted snow. Consider adjusting your travel plans if you see signs of unstable snow, such as cracks in the snow surface, or if you encounter unexpected or unwanted conditions. There is a slight chance of snowfall this afternoon that could create some additional small, shallow wind slabs, if it actually occurs.
Spring-like melt-freeze conditions have occurred on slopes with direct sun exposure at all elevations. Significantly less snow surface melt is expected to occur today on southerly aspects. This is due to colder air temperatures at the mid to upper elevations last night, max daytime high temps today around 10 degrees colder than yesterday, and an expected increase in cloud cover. Southerly aspects have experienced significant snow cover loss. Many southerly aspects that were snow covered 2 to 3 weeks ago now hold large areas of bare ground.
On northerly aspects at the mid to upper elevations, soft, cold near surface facets exist on shaded slopes with limited or no previous tracks. Highly trafficked areas and areas under thicker forest canopy generally hold firmer, uneven snow surfaces. Surface crust is often encountered across all aspects at low to mid elevations.
Deep open holes, open creeks, and ponded water are widespread in low lying areas, especially below 8,000'. These hazards are encountered in isolated distribution at higher elevations.