Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Clear skies and light winds will give the deep slab problem another day to adjust, however, it remains a low likelihood, high consequence hazard. Heightened awareness is warranted in complex terrain where large triggers like cornices or rockfall may exist. 

Avalanche problems

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2.5–4

    Deep Persistent slab avalanches failing within older layers of snow from late February have become a low likelihood/high consequence scenario.  Human triggering of these layers is unlikely, however, potential deep slab triggers may include objective hazards such as loose wet avalanches, rockfall, or cornice fall. Solar warming may make these types of triggers a possibility today. If triggered, expect deep slabs to propagate widely, connect multiple start zones and terrain features, and run long distances to valley floors. Deep slab release is often difficult to predict, assess and manage. You can decrease your exposure to the problem by limiting time spent in complex terrain and in the tracks and runouts of large avalanche paths. Areas of heightened concern include large low-elevation terrain traps like deep canyons between mountainsides and creek beds at the entrance to alpine cirques.

    (3/13/2023) Photo: Jeff Montgomery

  • Loose Wet

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

    Large loose wet avalanches were reported on low-elevation solar slopes in Rock Creek canyon yesterday. Look for these avalanches to initiate on solar slopes around tree and rock outcrops which absorb and radiate heat. Wet surface snow, indicated by increasing boot and ski penetration, rollerballs, and pinwheels, could mean that small wet releases may entrain more snow on the slope below. Use extra caution around larger slopes where these avalanches present a significant hazard, especially above terrain traps like gullies, cliffs, or road cuts.

    (2/11/2023)

    Small wet loose avalanches in steep rocky terrain triggered old wind slabs. 

Avalanche Discussion

Multiple natural deep slab avalanches released during the last round of loading on 3/14/23. These included several very large and historic avalanches. The last reported activity on the Feb. PWL was a natural, D4, witnessed south of the forecast area near Owen's Point on 3/15/23. Keep in mind that this recent run of high-intensity storms has had serious impacts on communities, infrastructure, and road crews. Considerate travel choices and strategic parking will be appreciated if you decide to venture out today. With such good coverage at lower elevations this winter, recent avalanches have been running further, impacting roadways and buildings in the communities of Virginia lakes, Mono City, June Lake, and Aspendell. It is important to practice good run-out awareness. Triggering an avalanche above infrastructure could have devastating consequences.  Have a backup plan, remember that it often takes multiple passes to clear roadways and trailhead parking. Road crews are working overtime to allow access to communities that have recently been stranded by heavy snow, avalanche activity, and flood damage. Blocking snow drifts, travel routes, and snow piles makes it impossible for road crews to finish the job. As you walk around mountain towns with dense snow piled on rooftops, be aware that roof avalanches are possible as temperatures climb.

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