Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Unstable wind drifts may be present in the high alpine today. Intense March sunshine and warmer weather at lower elevations could produce wet loose instabilities on solar aspects. Continued localized assessment of snow and weather conditions is essential to minimize your exposure to hazards today. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Winds have been variable in direction over the last 48 hours depending on where you are in the region. Mammoth and areas further south saw south - west winds, generally, and June and areas north of June saw northwest - north winds. Moderate to intense amounts of blowing snow were visible at mountain tops later in the day. Unstable wind slabs may linger, and new wind slabs may form today if winds perform at the higher end of forecasted speeds. Look for blowing snow and  cornice formation as signs of active wind loading. Look and feel for textured, stiff, hollow snow and cracking as indicators to this problem. Be suspect of slopes below ridge lines, catchment zones, gullies, chutes, bowls and depressions susceptible to cross-loading. Consider that direct sunlight at this time of year can act as a natural trigger, and solar slopes may be loaded. Make localized assessments throughout the day, and opt for lower angle slopes if in doubt. 

    (3/25/2024)

    Sastrugi on the snow surface above treeline in the June mountain Backcoountry.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Today will be the calmest and warmest day since our bout of fresh snow over the weekend. At lower elevations especially, we are beginning to think about wet loose instabilities as the intense March sunshine warms up the snow surface and warm temperatures are causing the snow to transition. Wet, sticky snow, increasing boot penetration, and rollerballs are all signs that indicate wet loose avalanches are becoming more likely. Areas near radiators, such as rock features and cliff bands, are especially susceptible to increased warming and are often areas where these avalanches can be triggered. Plan your day to be off of steep slopes by the time the snow gets too wet to minimize your exposure today. 

    (3/20/2024)

    Intentionally triggered baby wet loose avalanche. East aspect, 11500 ft. on Patricia Peak. 12:45 pm.

    Photo: Clancy Nelson

Avalanche Discussion

Spring in the Sierra is an unsettled time for weather, and thus the snowpack. Many areas in the region feel very much like mid-winter still, while others are starting to feel like spring. Currently, the winds seem to be operating in different directions in different parts of the region, and temperature gradients are different between the southern and northern zones at this time. Sunshine is affecting most aspects, and intensely affecting steep NE -S - W slopes. Lower elevations are melting, while we are concerned with snow surfaces, near surface faceting, and wind slabs at higher elevations. Due to the heightened variability at this time of year, it is important to think trip plans through thoroughly, and make continued localized assessments whilst traveling through the mountains. Be prepared for both winter and spring like conditions, depending on where you choose to travel. 

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