Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
4 · High
Below
4 · High
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

HIGH avalanche danger continues for another 24 hours at all elevations. Travel in or below avalanche terrain is not recommended. Maintain awareness of your location relative to avalanche terrain and keep a wide margin for error. Remain clear of avalanche runout zones.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    2

    Little has changed as the storm cycle continues. Periods of moderate to high intensity snowfall and moderate to strong SW winds are continuing to drift snow and keep the wind slab avalanche problem ongoing. The vast majority of wind slabs exist near treeline and above treeline on NW-N-NE-E-SE aspects. Wind slabs may be encountered to a lesser extent on other aspects or in below treeline areas. Avalanche size up to D3 is expected (could bury a car, destroy a house, or break a few trees).

    Be aware of the potential for avalanches from above running down into lower angle treed areas. Route plan carefully, anticipating low visibility obscuring the view of overhead avalanche start zones.

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1

    Continued development of unstable storm slabs remains likely from additional periods of high intensity snowfall today and tonight. Storm slabs are expected in wind protected areas mainly near and below treeline and may be encountered on any aspect. Avalanche size up to D2 is expected (could bury or injure a person).

    Route plan carefully to avoid avalanche terrain. If areas of questionable slope steepness are encountered during travel, use an inclinometer to measure slope angle in order to assist in data based decision making. Allow a margin for error. Be aware of the potential for steeper slopes above.

Avalanche Discussion

* Evidence of wind slab and storm slab avalanche problems were observed yesterday near Little Truckee Summit (Independence Lake area).

* Snow levels peaked Thursday morning up around 8,500' to 9,000'. Initial observations yesterday indicated a good bond between the refreezing rain layer and the new snow above it.

* New snow accumulations from this storm cycle are running 2 to 6 feet thus far in wind protected areas.

* Visibility in the backcountry has been poor with limited ability to see into avalanche start zones and assess for natural avalanche activity.

Regions covered