Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Be on the lookout for areas of unstable snow in the form of loose wet instabilities on solar aspects today. Avalanche hazard is expected to rise to MODERATE at all elevations. Be particularly cautious on long steep solar slopes, at lower elevations, and in areas near rock outcroppings, cliff bands, and tight couloirs where the effects of warming are amplified. Identify features of concern today and be on the lookout for areas of unstable snow.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Clear skies and moderate winds likely lead to a superficial refreeze last night and may keep surface snow from softening to concerning levels early in the day. However, you can expect substantial surface melt to occur quickly once the sun hits the snow.  Light winds, full sun, and temperatures well above seasonal averages will work together to raise the avalanche hazard throughout the day. Do your own localized assessments and be ready to retreat if surface melt becomes concerning.

    Expect more easterly terrain to warm first followed by due south aspects and finally westerly aspects as the sun moves through the sky. Be particularly cautious in areas where the snow is still in a state of transition such as higher elevations and aspects with indirect sun.  Areas near rock outcroppings, cliff bands, and tight southerly facing couloirs where the effects of warming are amplified will also present elevated hazards. Wet, sticky snow surface, rollerballs and pinwheels, and increasing boot penetration are all signs of surface warming and may foreshadow larger point release avalanches.

Avalanche Discussion

Remember that wet instabilities typically become more concerning in the afternoon. An early start is always beneficial as the weather warms and the sun intensifies. Be aware of hazards that may reside above you and consider shifting to another objective if other parties are already on the slope above you. The transition from hard and frozen to wet and unstable can happen quickly once the sun hits a suspect slope. Monitor surface warming as you ascend the slope and be ready to turn around if things become concerning. In addition, tools like boot and/or ski crampons and an ice ax may be crucial depending on where you choose to travel today.

Recent Observations

-4/5- Snow and weather observation, Lakes Basin

-4/4 – June Area – Mount Wood: Loose-wet sloughing and warming snow.

Regions covered