Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

LOW avalanche danger exists at all elevations. Snow totals from our most recent storm vary widely from one area to the next, the distribution of hazardous wind deposits is equally variable. Be on the lookout for isolated areas of reactive wind slab near and above treeline today, particularly on leeward terrain features and on southerly aspects. Monitor for continued wind transport, continue to use safe travel techniques and identify features of concern.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Our most recent storm brought snow totals ranging from trace amounts up to 6” in localized areas. Strong to extreme northeast winds led to significant wind transport throughout the storm, stripping northerly start zones and wind-exposed features to old snow surfaces or to bare ground and leading to a highly variable distribution of new snow.  Winds are expected to drop in velocity today and continue out of the NE. Continued slab development will be less likely today, however, it remains possible to find fresh winds slabs sensitive to human triggers in isolated areas near and above treeline.  Leeward terrain features and catchment zones on southerly aspects will be areas of primary concern. Be particularly cautious in areas with higher snow totals from Tuesday’s storm and in extreme & complex terrain. Large drifts, recent cornice growth, stiff hollow feeling snow, and uneven snow surfaces are all clues that indicate nearby wind deposits. Do your own localized assessments and be suspect of terrain features that encourage drifting such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, alpine couloirs, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions.

Avalanche Discussion

It is important to understand that our decision to drop hazard today has largely been influenced by the highly variable distribution of new snow.  It remains likely that there are reactive wind deposits throughout the forecast area however the distribution of consequential wind slabs on a whole is more isolated in nature. Localized assessments will be critical if you venture into the backcountry today. Areas that received higher snow totals will likely have deeper deposits and more specific distribution. Alpine environments are also areas where elevated concern is warranted.  Weather patterns in the high alpine are often unique and the terrain is more complex leading to less confidence in hazard distribution and smaller safety margins for backcountry travelers. Even relatively small or thin deposits could have much higher consequences in extreme and exposed terrain. Furthermore, travel remains difficult and surface conditions remain highly variable. Slick surfaces have created “dust on crust” conditions in many areas and equipment like boot and/or ski crampons and an ice ax may still be necessary depending on where you wish to travel.

New snow, clear blue skies and generally mild weather will be a powerful draw to get out into the hills. Keep in mind that the sun will also impact this new snow on solar aspects. Rollerballs, pinwheels, and small loose sloughs may be possible today, particularly at lower elevations, slopes with direct sun, and in areas near rock outcroppings where solar warming is amplified.

Regions covered