Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Concern lingers for triggering an avalanche today in areas where wind drifted snow has filled in near ridgetops and into gully features. Move cautiously around wind affected areas that appear smoother than the surrounding terrain. Consider opting for wind protected, forested slopes for less avalanche hazard and increased potential for softer snow surface conditions.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Lingering areas of unstable wind slab are a possibility today. Areas of concern are focused on the smoothest looking sections of slopes within wind affected areas on the downwind side of ridgetops and in gully features. Today's wind direction is forecast as the same as when the most recent wind slabs were formed. This should aid in identifying slopes of concern. If you encounter snow surface cracking, consider avoiding similar avalanche terrain in the immediate area.

    Obvious redistribution of snow on the ground, and plumes of blowing snow, were visible across the forecast area yesterday afternoon and evening. Ridgetop winds out of the E peaked in speed last night. Colder than normal air temperatures last night over the mid and upper elevation terrain may have slowed the stabilization of the most recently formed wind slabs. Consider holding off on travel today in high consequence, wind loaded terrain where even a small avalanche could cause trouble, especially on northerly aspects.

    (1/2/2026)

    Either read the snow surface clues today or use wind protected terrain below treeline as a strategy to avoid the avalanche problem.

    This photo shows rougher wind scoured areas vs smoother areas filled in with wind slab.

    Steven's Peak, Carson Pass area, CA

    Photo: Sierra Avalanche Center

Regions covered