Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Low avalanche danger is expected throughout the forecast area today.  Buried surface hoar exists under 3-5'' of storm snow from yesterday in many areas, but this small amount of additional load is not enough to warrant an avalanche concern at this time.  Normal caution is advised in the backcountry today.

Avalanche problems

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    0

    The Dec. 4th buried surface hoar layer is now under 3-5'' of storm snow.  This small amount of new load is not enough to cause failure of the layer or become a cohesive slab at this point.  Unfortunately, this new storm snow will add some protection to the buried surface hoar which could make it harder to destroy before additional storms overload the weak layer.  Small loose dry avalanches will continue to be possible in steep terrain. 

    Continue to practice safe travel protocols:  have a travel plan, travel one at a time through avalanche terrain, regroup out of avalanche terrain away from runout zones, and communicate with your partners.  

Avalanche Discussion

*  Buried surface hoar was found on Silver Peak (Pole Creek area) yesterday.  This buried surface hoar was found under 3-5'' of new storm snow.  Snowpack tests and informal observations showed that this load is not sufficient to create any avalanche concerns at this point.  Small loose dry avalanches occurred in steep northerly terrain.

*  Decent snow coverage exists above 7000-7500' along the Sierra Crest with slightly more coverage in the northern Sierra Crest part of the forecast area.  Snow coverage declines as you move east.  Early season conditions still exist.  Many obstacles are present including; rocks, logs, stumps, and open water.

Regions covered