Avalanche forecast

Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Bridgeport Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

The recent snowfall has improved skiing and riding conditions. But with fresh snow and wind comes the formation of unstable wind slabs. Que in on any feedback the mountains can give you, look for cracking collapsing on the snow surface and signs of wind-drifted snow, especially in leeward terrain.  Wind-sheltered terrain could see small loose snow avalanches. Conservative route finding and thoughtful decision-making today are key.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Since Friday night we have gained nearly 2ft of new snow in the Sonora Pass area,  with less to the south. As snowfall continues during the daylight hours today, the formation of  Wind Slabs will continue. Although snowfall totals are reduced today, the variable to keep an eye on is the shifting wind directions. Gradually the wind will shift from SW-> W, and near dark it will begin to blow from the W all while maintaining consistent wind speeds. SW winds yesterday loaded the leeward terrain on N-NE and E  slopes. As wind directions change today expect spatial variability in the distribution of the wind slabs to increase. You are likely to find instability on leeward terrain, ridgelines, and cross-loaded gullies.  Signs to watch for include blowing snow, wind drifts, and cracking or collapsing snow, and use test slopes to get a feel for the mountains today.

    Example of Wind transport on the ridgelines of Crater Crest. Photo taken earlier this year on Feb 21.

    Photo: Joe Soccio

  • Loose Dry

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

    Locations that are sheltered from the wind have loose unconsolidated snow on the surface with a firm melt-freeze crust below. This creates a recipe for small dry loose avalanches to occur on the snow surface. Although any Dry Loose avalanches will be small in size, even a small point release could be consequential depending on the terrain you are traveling in. Terrain traps and unsafe runouts can amplify the repercussions of a point release.  Take a second look and discuss among your group before entering steep/committing slopes.

Avalanche Discussion

 

  • HWY 108 is a patchwork of snow and blacktop until the pack station. CAL TRANS has begun to clear the road.
  • Help contribute to the forecast! Submit an observation HERE.

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