Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Areas of unstable wet snow may form today on steep, sun exposed slopes as the day progresses. Exercise caution in steep sun exposed terrain where the surface crust has melted away, and the top few inches of snow are wet. Consider opting to lower angle slopes or more shaded aspects if unstable wet snow is present.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Increasing cloud cover this morning and a melt-freeze crust formed on the snow surface last night are expected to slow the development of wet loose avalanche conditions today. SE-S-SW aspect terrain near exposed rock and cliff bands will warm first today with slower warming in other sun exposed areas. Most of the wet loose avalanche activity today is expected at size D1 and only involve the top few inches of the snowpack. Avalanches up to size D2 could occur on long open slopes with sustained slope angles where more of the recent storm snow could become entrained and increase the size of the debris pile.

    Once the surface crust melts away, wet loose avalanches are possible in the area. Roller balls and pinwheels are often indicators that wet loose avalanches could occur. If unstable wet snow is present, consider moving to less steep terrain or changing locations to a more shaded aspect.

    (2/11/2024)

    Ski cuts intentionally triggered size D1 wet loose avalanches on SSE aspect terrain near 9,000' at 10:40 am yesterday. Surface wet snow instability is expected to take longer to develop today.

    Photo: Sierra Avalanche Center

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