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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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

MODERATE avalanche danger continues with a persistent slab avalanche problem at all elevations.  Large and destructive avalanches are still a concern throughout the forecast region.  Avalanche danger is expected to further rise over the next few days.

Avalanche problems

  • Deep Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2

    Uncertainty continues to exist with this persistent weak layer that is buried 2 to 4' deep in the snowpack.  The last known avalanche that occurred on this weak layer was on Friday Jan 11.  Snowpack tests have mostly trended towards the layer gaining strength, but some tests continue to show that propagation is likely if the weak layer can be initiated.  The last avalanche occurred in complex terrain triggered by a large cornice failure.

    While the likelihood of triggering a persistent slab avalanche may be low, the consequences of a large destructive avalanche are high.  Talk with your group about managing terrain.  Avoid areas where large cornices exist above complex terrain.  

Avalanche Discussion

*  Observations came in yesterday from Upper Coldstream Canyon and Donner Peak (Donner Summit area), Needle Peak (Pole Creek area), Becker Peak (Echo Pass area), and DK's Canyon (East Shore area).  All of these locations were able to find the old buried facet layer.  Snowpack test results varied by location, with some continuing to produce propagation results with the ECT and PST.  Large surface hoar was seen in most areas.

*  Large massive cornices exist in many near and above treeline areas throughout the forecast region.   

Regions covered