Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Moderate avalanche danger exists in near treeline and above treeline terrain due to the possibility of a wind slab avalanche problem.  Low avalanche danger continues in wind protected below treeline terrain.  Identify and avoid areas where active wind loading is occurring or has previously occurred.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Wind slabs are possible on all aspects in near treeline and above treeline terrain on slopes 35 degrees and steeper.  SW/W winds began to increase in speed yesterday afternoon to the moderate range with gusts into the strong range.  These winds continued on and off throughout the night and are forecasted to shift to the North today and remain in the moderate to strong range.  Plenty of recent storm snow is available for transport if wind speeds do materialize.

    Look for active signs of wind loading including blowing snow, cornice formation, and wind pillows.  Snow surface scouring may offer clues as to how much wind transport previously occurred overnight as wind direction and speed change today.

Avalanche Discussion

Observations were made and received from Hidden Peak (West Shore area) and Castle Peak (Donner Summit area).  Both areas showed that the recent storm snow continues to settle and gain strength.  On Hidden Peak, very little wind with no wind transport of snow was observed along the summit ridge.  Winds did increase in speed by early afternoon in this area.  Snowpack tests and informal observations gave no indications of ongoing instabilities within the snowpack.

Regions covered