Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Unstable wet snow conditions are expected to form again today due to above freezing overnight temperatures and rapid warming.  Finding supportable snow conditions will require an early start and exit.  If signs of unstable snow exist, like roller balls, pinwheels, or deep wet snow-it's time to move away from avalanche terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Above freezing temperatures occurred in most areas of the forecast region overnight again.  Areas of overnight cloud cover could also prevent the snow surface from refreezing, whereas clear skies could allow for radiational cooling that could provide at least a superficial snow surface refreeze.  Rapid warming this morning is expected to melt what little refreeze of the snow surface that has occurred.  Once this happens, deeper wet snow will be exposed that will be capable of producing wet loose avalanches.  These wet loose avalanches could run long distances where continuous steep terrain exists.

    Monitor the snow surface and your surroundings while traveling in the backcountry.  Roller balls, pinwheels, and boot penetration ankle deep or more-will be signs the snow surface is losing strength and supportability.  If you see signs of unstable snow, it's time to change aspects or move away from avalanche terrain. 

    (4/23/2023)

    Large cornices and recent wet loose activity along the Becker/Talking/Ralston ridge.

    Photo: SAC

Avalanche Discussion

  • Glide cracks have formed on some steep slopes in rocky areas. The exact timing of glide crack avalanches is notoriously difficult to predict. Due to the uncertainty, consider avoiding travel on or below slopes with glide cracks.
  • Cornice fall remains an ongoing concern as air temperatures warm above freezing.  Limit exposure below cornices and use extra caution while moving around ridgelines where cornices exist.
  • Rockfall has been observed in many areas of the forecast region.

Regions covered