Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

As temperatures rise, wet snow avalanches will become likely, especially on steep slopes that receive direct sun. Travel early in the day and stick to colder, shadier aspects to limit your exposure.  

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Last nights refreeze was better than expected. However, rising temperatures, strong April sunshine, and light winds will cause snow surfaces to warm quickly today. Wet slides can initiate from a single point release and entrain heavy snow. They can be very difficult to escape. Thus, even a small slide can have high consequences, especially in exposed terrain and near terrain traps. Easterly aspects will warm first as the sun comes out this morning, followed by southerly and westerly aspects as the sun moves across the sky. Rocky areas, confined chutes, and slopes with shallow snow cover can exacerbate the effects of warming. The best way to manage Wet Loose avalanches is to travel early when the snow surface is colder. Time your trips to avoid crossing on or under very steep slopes in the heat of the day. Move to colder, shadier aspects before the snow surface transitions from dry to wet. Rollerballs and pinwheels are the first, most obvious warning signs of Wet Loose avalanches.

    (4/5/2025) Photo: Samantha Rubin

    D1.5 wet loose avalanche, E, occurred the morning of 4/5/25. 

Avalanche Discussion

Today will be similar to yesterday. However, overnight temperatures were warmer, we will see less wind, and we will have clear skies today. Slopes may warm quicker than yesterday, and to a greater extent. You may find slick surfaces for travel in the morning hours, depending on where you choose to travel. Isolated slopes may be wind loaded or wind scoured, especially at higher elevations. Triggering a dry loose avalanche is still a possibility on steep slopes with unconsolidated cold snow. As it gets warmer at higher elevations, be mindful of the potential for rockfall. 

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