Central Sierra Nevada

Mild sunny weather with light winds will continue.  A weak snowpack structure continues to be present in some isolated portions of the forecast region.  LOW avalanche danger exists with avalanches unlikely today, normal caution is advised.

Early season storms created a layer of weak faceted snow near the base of the snowpack.  This layer exists on NW-N-NE-E aspects above around 8000-8500'.  This layer has gained strength in most areas of the forecast region.  Areas with a shallower and weaker snowpack in the far southern part of our area, continue to show unstable snowpack test results.  It has been over a week since the last known avalanche occurred and signs of instabilities were observed.

2 to 3 feet of snow exists throughout the forecast region above 7500'.  Shaded northerly aspects hold the most snow with good snow quality, with slopes receiving sun developing wet snow in the mid-day.  In many locations, the snowpack is very supportable with good travel conditions.  Early season hazards do exist at lower elevations and in rocky terrain with exposed rocks, bushes, stumps, and down trees present.

Make a plan with your group before heading out into the backcountry.  Carry avalanche safety gear, travel and make informed decisions together based on the current conditions.