Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Use caution on wind-loaded slopes near and above treeline. Watch for signs of instability such as recent cornice formation, shooting cracks in drifted snow, and recent avalanche activity. When in doubt, stick to protected areas with lower slope angles to limit your exposure.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Snow accumulations over the past 48 hrs have been hard to nail down. 0-8" has been recorded throughout the region; however, extreme winds at all elevations have led to variable snow distributions and atypical loading patterns. It is likely that snow totals have been most substantial in the northern half of the forecast area and at higher elevations along the Sierra crest. Fresh slab development will be most likely on the leeward sides of ridgelines, in confined couloirs and gully features, and mid-slope depressions. Extreme winds can redistribute snow in surprising ways. Conduct your own localized assessments as you travel today and be on the lookout for fresh slab development in more sheltered areas and at lower elevations. If you're traveling through fresh drifts or experience cracking underfoot, you have likely found the problem. You can reduce your exposure by traveling on lower slope angles in wind-protected areas. 

    (4/1/2026)

    Cracking in recently drifted new snow, unsupported. Northeast 10600'.

    Photo: Sean Smollen

Avalanche Discussion

Our most recent storm underperformed with precipitation, but the winds certainly showed up.  Exposed areas above treeline may be stripped to old snow, while more substantial drifts of new snow may be found in sheltered areas near treeline. This means that fresh wind slabs may not be where you typically expect to find them. Monitor conditions closely as you travel today and be ready for a wide variety of surface conditions. Hard and frozen surfaces will be prevalent where old snow is exposed, and soft new snow will likely be wind-affected even in sheltered areas. Keep in mind that new snow from this storm has fallen on dry ground or in areas with thin or patchy coverage, particularly at lower elevations and on sun-exposed slopes. Expect obstacles like rocks and logs just below the surface, and be cautious at lower elevations where snow cover was previously discontinuous.

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