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Out of date — this forecast expired 7 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Firm snow conditions with potential fall hazards will continue to exist throughout the forecast region.  Some areas of soft spring snow should develop at low to mid elevations today.  Normal caution is advised with LOW avalanche danger expected.

Avalanche problems

  • Cornices

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Well below freezing overnight temperatures along with mostly clear skies will have allowed for a strong refreeze of the snow surface.  Firm snow surfaces are expected on most all aspects and elevations during the morning hours.  As the sun warms the snow surface, soft corn snow will develop on SE-S-SW aspects by mid-day at low to mid elevations.  Moderate E winds are forecasted to develop through the day and could delay or prohibit snow softening in wind exposed areas and upper elevations.  Loose wet snow instabilities are not expected to be a concern for today.  

    Widespread firm and variable snow surfaces exist throughout the forecast region.  Sliding falls continue to be the primary hazard for backcountry users.  As snowmelt continues at the lower elevations; exposed rocks, vegetation, and open water in creeks may also present travel concerns.  Make sure your group has a travel plan that matches our current conditions.

Avalanche Discussion

Good soft corn snow developed on Silver Peak (Pole Creek area) yesterday.  By 12 noon, SE and S aspects were soft at the low to mid elevations, with the upper elevations remaining firm due to moderate SW winds.  Firm and variable snow existed on N-NE aspects.

Regions covered