Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 9 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanche danger is low throughout the forecast area.  Hard wind slabs in isolated near treeline and above treeline terrain still remain a concern but have become unlikely.  Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Areas of hard wind slab on top of low density old near surface facets remain in isolated areas on NW aspects and also on isolated N-NE aspects in near and above treeline terrain.  Most areas above treeline have been thoroughly scoured by the recent NE/E winds making it difficult to differentiate between wind scoured slopes and slopes that have hard wind slabs.  These hard wind slabs are extremely dense and strong making them unlikely to trigger in most areas.  Areas where these hard slabs are thinner or non supported still represent a concern; like the sides of gullies or in steep complex terrain.  

    While these hard wind slabs are unlikely, any avalanche involving this problem would have large consequences with our low snowpack conditions.  Look for slopes with smooth, wind sculpted surfaces and avoid areas with any type of hollow sounding snow.

Avalanche Discussion

-Hard wind slabs with underlying faceted snow found on Elephants Back (Carson Pass area) and Relay Peak (Mt. Rose area).

-Widespread firm, wind scoured snow surfaces found on most near and above treeline terrain.

-Snow coverage is deepest above 8000' in the northern part of the forecast region.  Minimal snow coverage exists below 8000'.  Decreasing snow coverage on southerly aspects at higher elevations. 

Regions covered