Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern 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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Avalanche Danger is LOW. A warm and sunny day with light winds will elevate concerns for WET-LOOSE Avalanches on E-SE-S-SW-W Aspects at ALL ELEVATIONS. Potential hazard will increase by mid-day into the afternoon as conditions heat up.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Bright sun and warm temperatures will soften and provide more agreeable sliding conditions than yesterday’s lockdown. It will also mean greater potential for WET-LOOSE avalanche hazard at ALL ELEVATIONS on E-SE-S-SW-W Aspects. As we reach equinox, the easterly and westerly aspects are beginning to transition from cold winter snow to spring-like conditions with rounding grains and a consolidated nature. With enough solar/heat input, these transitional snowtypes may prove to be unsupportable or unstable. Shallow snowfields residing on steep terrain, unsupported slopes above exposure, or granite slabs with free-water flowing underneath, are terrain features to watch out for. Be aware of not only what slope you are travelling on, but particularly of what’s above you, especially if over-head terrain is picking up significant solar input. Check for supportability of snow, by taking off your ski/board and checking for boot penetration. If you’re sinking above boot top, best to move to shadier aspects or find alternative slopes to travel upon

Avalanche Discussion

The primary hazard the past 2.5 months in the Eastern Sierra has been one of un-recoverable slides down the mountain on firm and wind sculpted ancient snow surfaces. We have only received 8” of total new snow at snow study sites at 9300ft in 2022, and therefore conditions are firm and rugged. We have continuously, and still recommended “Bringing the Metal” – (Boot and Ski Crampons, Ice Axe and Helmet) to tackle most objectives in the forecast zone.  Come prepared and look at the big picture before committing to exposed terrain or slopes that terminate above cliffs or exposed reefs.

Regions covered