Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Daytime warming will allow for wet snow to develop on some sun exposed slopes.  Snow surface melt and developing loose wet instabilities should be limited today due to increasing cloud cover.  LOW avalanche danger continues at all elevations.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Mostly below overnight freezing temperatures with clear skies will have provided a good refreeze of the snow surface.  Some snow surface melt and wet snow will develop as daytime warming occurs with above freezing temperatures.  Widespread mid to high level cloud cover will limit the amount of snow surface warming and loose wet instabilities that will form today.  Light to moderate S winds will also limit snow surface melt in wind exposed areas above 8000'.  Roller balls and pinwheels could occur in areas that receive enough snow surface warming, but larger loose wet avalanches are not expected today.    

    Lower elevation wind protected locations have the best chance for increased warming and wet snow development, especially around rocks, cliffs, and gully features.  Areas that do not see the increased cloud cover that is expected could have more loose wet instabilities occur.  If slopes exceed 3-4'' of wet snow, it's time to move to different aspects or to sub 30 degree terrain.   

Avalanche Discussion

* Diurnal melt freeze conditions are affecting the snow surface on slopes with direct sun exposure and in some cases indirect sun exposure.  Transitional snow still exists on many E and W aspects and at higher elevations that have not formed substantial melt freeze crusts.

* Lingering pockets of unconsolidated surface snow that have yet to undergo melt exist on well shaded and wind protected N aspects, but are becoming increasingly disconnected. Minimal faceting in the upper snowpack has been noted in these areas.

* Exposed rain crusts, melt freeze crusts, and firm wind scoured surfaces are widespread across the forecast area and can be encountered on any aspect and elevation.

Regions covered