Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Moderate avalanche danger could exist on NE-E-SE-S-SW-W aspects near and above treeline due to newly forming wind slabs.  These wind slabs should be limited mainly north of Hwy 50 where we received more snow in the last 24 hours.  Loose wet avalanches are unlikely today but could occur if we receive large periods of sun and less cloud cover than forecasted.  Adjust terrain choices and route selection according to localized conditions.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2

    We received some additional snow overnight with increased and changing winds.  Wind slab avalanches could be possible today on NE-E-SE-S-SW-W aspects near and above treeline.  Winds have been variable depending on location, anywhere from the NW-N-NE with speeds ranging from 20 to 30mph with gusts up to 50mph.  Over the last 24 hours, more snow accumulation has occurred north of Hwy. 50 and on the Eastern side of the forecast area.  These areas with more available snow for wind transport and winds strong enough to move snow will be of most concern.   

    Be aware of highly localized avalanche conditions today and avoid potentially unstable wind slabs where they have formed. Use clues such as blowing snow, recent avalanche activity, cornice formations, wind pillows, snow surface scouring, and human triggered snow surface cracking to help identify areas to avoid.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    There is some uncertainty as to how much sun we will see today.  If sun breaks do develop and we receive large amounts of solar radiation, loose wet avalanches could occur on E-SE-S-SW-W aspects.

    Look for small surface instabilities like roller balls, pinwheels, or point releases. Once the surface snow becomes wet it's time to change aspects and move off and away from slopes that are 35 degrees or steeper. Terrain traps like gullies, creeks, and cliffs can greatly increase the risk of any size loose wet avalanches.

     

Avalanche Discussion

Observations yesterday from Tamarack Peak (Mt. Rose area) showed up to 8'' of new storm snow by early afternoon.  Very little evidence of any wind transport was seen in this area with little to no wind slab development observed.  Loose dry sloughs were common in steeper terrain >40 degrees which involved the top few inches of surface snow.  Snowfall was consistent throughout the day and continued on departure.

Regions covered