Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

MODERATE avalanche at all elevations. Loose wet avalanches resulting from daytime warming will be possible today on all aspects as warm temperatures and the strong march sun impact the area. Monitor for changing conditions today and be ready for rising hazard as the day progresses. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully and identify features of concern.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Sunny skies are expected to return today with very warm temperatures and light winds out of the southwest. Expect surface moistening to occur quickly today as the sun comes out and temperatures rise. Our recent snow accumulations are not yet fully transitioned and may become unstable as they warm up today. This is particularly true at upper elevations and on aspects with less direct sun.  Keep in mind that even a small slough from above can entrain significant volume becoming more destructive as it travels downhill. Steep terrain with direct sun exposure, areas near cliff bands and rock outcroppings, and tight southerly facing couloirs are areas where warming is amplified and should be approached with caution as things warm up today.

    Keep an eye out for early warning signs such as sticky and moist surface snow, rollerballs & pinwheels, and increasing boot penetration. These are all clues that may foreshadow larger point-release avalanches. Be wary of your exposure to terrain hazards and be prepared to retreat to more shaded aspects if you notice that surface warming is reaching concerning levels.

Avalanche Discussion

As we move into April it’s safe to say that spring has taken hold here in the Eastern Sierra. Getting an early start is crucial right now. Climbing and descending slopes before they warm too much and become unconsolidated should be your goal. This will help minimize avalanche hazards and maximize the potential for pleasant skiing and riding. Beyond the concern for areas of unstable snow today it remains important to keep our variable and challenging surface conditions in mind if you decide to head into the backcountry.  Overall the snowpack remains quite thin with a plethora of” pre-season” obstacles exposed or buried just below the surface. Highly textured, 3-dimensional surfaces are common on all aspects, hard and slick slopes can be found at all elevations making for difficult travel, and moist, punchy, & sticky snow may make for unpredictable sliding. Be prepared with the proper equipment, start early, and be aware of your exposure to terrain hazards such as long steep slopes, cliff bands, thinly covered obstacles, large areas of dry ground, tight rocky chokes, and stands of bushes and trees.

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