Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

There is a low likelihood of triggering an isolated slab avalanche in upper elevation terrain today. Places where wind drifted snow filled in over the past 24 hours above the rain/snow line warrant caution. Slopes and gullies below or adjacent to cornice features and wind pillows are the main areas of concern.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Yesterday's rain/snow line was around 7,500' to 8,000' across the forecast area. Identify areas where recently wind drifted snow filled in over the past 24 hours. Areas of shallow wind slab could be encountered along the down wind side of ridgetops and gully features. Use clues such as cornice formations, wind pillows, and snow surface cracking to identify areas where shallow, isolated instability might exist.

    New snow amounts of 1 to 4 inches accumulated yesterday in the 8,000' to 8,800' elevation range. More snow accumulated in some locations above 9,000', mainly along the Sierra Crest. Yesterday's snow had a fairly high moisture content and is expected to have bonded quickly to the old snow surface. Some isolated areas of instability could linger today in areas that didn't bond as quickly, especially over the highest elevations.

    (12/27/2025)

    This avalanche occurred along the down wind side of this ridge feature, similar to the type of terrain where an isolated wind slab avalanche remains a concern for today. Steven's Peak approach, Carson Pass area, CA

    Photo: Public

Avalanche Discussion

All parts of the forecast area received rain to 10,000' on Dec 31. Areas of crust (either supportable or breakable) are anticipated today, either on the snow surface or up to a few inches below the snow surface. Presentation of the crust will vary with elevation and location, depending on the amount of rain and snow received since Dec 31.

Deep, open holes, open creeks, and ponded water persist around the forecast area. These holes and open areas are especially prominent below 8,000', but have been observed at higher elevations.

Regions covered