Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

MODERATE avalanche hazard exists above treeline today while LOW avalanche hazard exists near and below treeline. Be on the lookout for areas of reactive wind slab on all aspects. Leeward terrain features adjacent to ridgelines, mid-slope depressions, alpine couloirs, and gully features are all areas where concerning wind slabs may exist. Monitor for continued wind transport, use safe travel techniques and identify features of concern.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Our most recent storm brought snow totals ranging from trace amounts up to 10” in some areas with strong to extreme winds shifting around the compass rose. Recent observations suggest the highest storm totals are concentrated along the Sierra crest and in the northern half of the forecast area. Expect the size and distribution of fresh wind slabs to be greater in areas with higher snow totals. Continued slab development will be less likely today, however, winds are expected to continue out of the north at strong speeds and it remains possible to find winds slabs sensitive to human triggers in specific areas near and above treeline.  Large drifts, recent cornice growth, stiff hollow feeling snow, and uneven snow surfaces are all clues that indicate nearby wind deposits. Do your own localized assessments and be suspect of terrain features that encourage drifting such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, alpine couloirs, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions.

Avalanche Discussion

New snow, clear skies, and generally mild weather will be a powerful draw to get out into the hills today.  After such a long dry season it is important that we check ourselves and realize that several hazards still exist in the backcountry.

Keep in mind that the sun is getting higher in the sky, days are getting longer, and solar input can be quite intense.  Some surface moistening and an increased risk of rockfall should be expected on solar aspects today, particularly if winds are less intense than forecasted.  Keep an eye out for early warning signs such as sticky and moist surface snow, rollerballs & pinwheels, and increasing boot penetration. These are clues that may foreshadow larger point-release avalanches. Be wary of your exposure to terrain hazards and be prepared to retreat to more shaded aspects if you notice that surface warming is reaching concerning levels. Furthermore, travel remains difficult and surface conditions remain highly variable. New snow on old slick surfaces has created “dust on crust” conditions in many areas and equipment like boot and/or ski crampons and an ice ax are still necessary depending on where you wish to travel. In addition, thin coverage exists throughout the forecast area providing a plethora of obstacles for the backcountry traveler. Rocks, fallen trees, exposed bushes, and open creeks are to be expected on your travels. Keep in mind that recent snow showers may have hidden some of these obstacles just below the surface.  

Regions covered