Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Moderate Avalanche Danger is expected today throughout the forecast region due to a wind slab avalanche problem.  Increased winds overnight and through today will make wind slab avalanches possible in near and above treeline terrain.  Low avalanche danger will exist in below treeline terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Strong to gale force SW winds overnight will make wind slab avalanches possible on NW-N-NE-E-SE aspects in near and above treeline terrain.  Throughout the day, winds will shift to the NW and then to the NE and remain strong in speed making wind slabs possible on all aspects in exposed near and above treeline terrain.  Some of these newly formed wind slabs could be deposited on top of surface hoar, making them easier to trigger.  Most of these wind slabs are expected to be small in size and not extend very far downslope.  These wind slabs could show soft or hard slab characteristics.  Many areas observed throughout the forecast region continue to have snow available for wind transport.

    Look for blowing snow, cornice formation, wind pillows, and snow surface clues that wind transport has or is occurring.  Avoid steep wind loaded terrain. 

Avalanche Discussion

*  Buried surface hoar has been found in the Carson Pass area, Desolation Wilderness area, Echo Summit area, Donner Summit area, Mt. Rose area, and the Independence Lake area.  The size, preservation, reactivity, and distribution of the surface hoar layer varies greatly by location.

*  Many areas still have soft snow available for wind transport in near and above treeline terrain.

*  On Sunday, a skier triggered a small slab avalanche that took him over a 200'+ cliff band on Mt. Tallac suffering serious injuries.

*  Mostly sufficient snow coverage exists along the Sierra Crest above 7000-7500'.  East of the Crest, snow coverage decreases with some areas still having adequate snow coverage for recreation.  Early season conditions exist in most areas.

Regions covered