Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 9 years ago.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

Highlights

Avalanche danger is LOW for all elevations and aspects. Small wind slabs exist in a variety of locations near and above treeline with human triggering unlikely. Look for and identify isolated areas of potential instability.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    SW storm winds followed by gale force NE winds have once again created a mix of firm scoured snow surfaces interspersed with areas of recently formed wind slab on a variety of aspects near and above treeline. Winds shifted back to the SW last night, but are expected to move only minor amounts of snow during the strongest gusts. Difficult to trigger hard wind slabs will remain today on a variety of aspects near and above treeline. Potential avalanche size is expected at D1 to D1.5.

    Consequences of a small human triggered avalanche could be magnified substantially if a person is carried into rocks or trees, over a cliff, or into a terrain trap. Use the equipment and travel techniques associated with normal caution to help minimize consequences if caught in an avalanche.

Avalanche Discussion

* Newly formed wind slabs were observed yesterday near and above treeline in the Donner Summit, Mount Rose, and Carson Pass areas. Sensitivity to triggers ranged from unreactive to stubborn.

* Significant wind effects were noted in some areas below treeline.

* On a regional scale, the greatest snow coverage exists above 8,000' along the Mount Rose Hwy and in Sierra Crest locations north of Emerald Bay. Overall less snow cover exists south of Emerald Bay, but is generally usable above 8,500'.

Regions covered