Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

The avalanche danger could rise rapidly as strong winds and heavy snowfall affect the region later today. Unstable slabs of drifted snow will grow in size throughout the afternoon. Small avalanches could step down into weak layers deeper in the snowpack. Frigid wind chills and the likelihood of injury from getting dragged through thinly covered obstacles downslope greatly increase the risk of getting caught in an avalanche. 

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

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

    Newly drifted snow could stiffen slabs over sugary, loose weak layers throughout the fragile early-season snowpack. If triggered, the resulting avalanche could break in unexpected ways - from across the slope, or from below. Shallow snow cover may increase the likelihood of collisions with rocks and trees in the runout. Approach steep terrain cautiously. Dial back your terrain choices if you see shooting cracks or hear whumpfing noises from the snowpack. 

    (12/28/2023) Photo: Steve Mace

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Strong winds at all elevations could redistribute snow onto leeward slopes. You’ll likely find dense slabs getting larger and more sensitive as new snow falls. The first places to develop fresh drifts will be the leeward sides of ridgelines and the sidewalls of cross-loaded gullies. As winds increase and new snow falls, you may find drifts further down the slope than you’d expect, and downwind of tight trees. Watch for blowing snow and growing cornices. Shooting cracks and the sound of the snowpack collapsing under your weight are warning signs that wind slabs are becoming unstable in your area. Keep in mind that even a relatively small wind slab avalanche breaking in the upper snowpack may be enough to step down to persistent weak layers, creating a larger avalanche.

    Rider-triggered avalanche in Red Cone Bowl on 1/3/24

Avalanche Discussion

A cold winter storm will affect the region starting late morning. High winds and frigid temperatures will be the theme at all elevations and in all areas. Snowfall intensifies in the northern reaches of the forecast area by midday. Expect the danger from wind slab and persistent slab avalanches to rise first near the Sierra Crest in Virginia Lakes and west of Mono Lake. By late afternoon, dangerous avalanche conditions could spread south of Mammoth. Heavy snowfall is likely by sunset and will continue overnight.

Very cold wind chills and the chances of injury from hitting rocks and logs could turn an avalanche accident into a dangerous rescue scenario. 

Regions covered