Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Some amount of surface wet snow formation is expected on sun exposed slopes today. The actual amount is fully dependent on how quickly cloud cover moves into the area. Minimize the consequences of encountering any isolated areas of unstable snow by using normal caution travel techniques for backcountry avalanche terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    How quickly cloud cover increases today is the big wildcard for the amount of surface wet snow development that occurs today. Some amount of incoming solar radiation is expected first thing this morning. How long it lasts after that is dependent on how quickly cloud cover increases. Steeper slopes with at least a few hours of direct sun exposure this morning hold the best chance for enough surface wet snow formation to lead to a wet loose avalanche problem. If thicker cloud cover fills in quickly, don't expect much out of this avalanche problem today.

    Rollerballs and pinwheels are clues that wet loose avalanches could occur. Areas around sun exposed rocks that contribute to increased heating often warm the fastest. Opt for lower angle terrain or more shaded areas if signs of wet loose instability are present.

Regions covered