Avalanche forecast

Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Bridgeport Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Recent snow and wind have created dangerous avalanche conditions, forming unstable slabs in the higher elevations.  Choose your travel routes thoughtfully and asses slope conditions as you move through terrain today.  Signs of instability to watch for include, recent avalanches shooting cracks, and blowing snow.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Although this weekend's weather has had much less wind than what we normally expect on the Sierra Crest during a storm, there is plenty of snow avalible for transport. Wind speeds are expected to reach the threshold for transporting new snow into wind slabs. This morning the wind will begin from the W and slowly dance around the compass rose until resting in an NE position after sundown.  With the addition of this weekends new snow at higher elevations and consistent 20mph wind speeds in the alpine today, the formula for new wind slabs forming is in place. Combined with the swirling winds, we may see wind slabs form in a few uncommon places not just the usual suspects on NE slopes.  Watch for wind-drifted snow, actively blowing snow, and cracking or whumpfing as you ride or ski today.

    Wind Blown snow on Big Easy's NE face.

    Photo: Joe Soccio

  • Storm Slabs

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

    New snow is driving the current instability, nearly 2 feet has fallen in the Leavitt Lake area since Friday. Yesterday, a brief break in the clouds allowed some visibility into the high country revealing numerous slab avalanche crowns and point releases. The storm has had variable temperatures during snowfall creating distinct layers within the new snow that are creating unstable snow.  At higher elevations where temperatures have been consistently cold, wind-sheltered snow remains loose and dry causing point releases in steep terrain. Carefully evaluate slopes before committing to your ski/ snowmobile terrain today.  A quick mitt pit or test slope is a great way to help identify the presence of a slab.  If you or your party remain uncertain, choosing low-angle terrain is the answer.

    Storm Slab crowns near Sardine Falls

    Photo: Joe Soccio

Avalanche Discussion

 Spring is a dynamic season as we see a potpourri of snow and avalanche conditions. Although the recent snow and cold weather may not have us thinking of spring, April is only a day away. The sun's angle is high in the sky and longer days mean warmer temperatures can arrive quickly. Lower elevations may see cloud cover dissipate earlier in the day and cause surface warming.  New snow, warm temperatures, and clear skies may create unstable Wet Loose point release avalanches. Signs of warming include roller balls, wet snow, and point releases near rocks or trees on steep terrain  The Spring season always brings significant changes to the snowpack don't be lulled to sleep as we turn the calander, warmer temperatures are forecasted for higher elevations in the week ahead.

 

 

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