Eastside Region

Avalanche danger is LOW.  Yesterday’s snowfall was primarily focused on the Mammoth Lakes area with upwards of 4”+ of light dry snow accumulating. Be on the lookout today for potential loose dry sloughing or minor wind deposits in isolated terrain features and extreme terrain. N-NE-E Aspects will be of most concern for unstable snow.

Most of the forecast zone received some new light snow with 1-2” being the average. Per usual, the Mammoth Lakes area received the most new snow with upwards of 4”+ combined with extreme southwesterly winds of 100mph+ along the crest. Observations yesterday found that the extremely cold temperatures and violent winds did not aid in significantly loading northerly leeward aspects around the Mammoth area. “Dust on Crust” conditions were the name of the game, with a thin layer of light new snow resting on very firm and rugged old snow surfaces.  The greatest accumulations were actually in the lower elevations and flats where wind driven snow was accumulating in road cuts and amongst vegetation.  Winds backed and began blowing from the North around midnight last night and will aid in stripping the light powder snow back off the northerly aspects today.

Be on the lookout for potential small loose dry sloughing in terrain conducive to capturing wind driven snow such as gullies, couloirs or areas adjacent to rock outcroppings and cliff bands. The Mammoth Lakes area once again will be of primary concern with zones such as the Mammoth Crest, San Joaquin Ridge and Sherwins receiving the most snow yesterday. Northerly Aspects will be of most concern, but with winds switching to the north last night ALL ASPECTS, especially at or above Tree line should be looked at with a critical eye today.