Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 10 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

MODERATE avalanche danger exists near treeline and above treeline due to wind slabs. Below treeline LOW avalanche danger exists in wind protected areas. Areas of instability will exist within greater surrounding areas of seemingly good stability. This could create a false sense of security. Avoid relying on marginal islands of safety or grouping up in runout zones. Evaluate slopes and terrain carefully, especially when changing elevation bands or changing from one aspect to another.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Ongoing areas of blowing snow yesterday combined with shifting winds today will keep the concern for unstable wind slabs ongoing. The vast majority of wind slabs will exist near treeline and above treeline on NW-N-NE-E-SE aspects. Smaller new wind slabs may form today near treeline and above treeline on S-SW-W aspects. If today's NE winds are stronger than forecast, new wind slabs will be larger and more widespread.

    Look for areas of blowing snow, recent cornice formation, and wind pillows to determine specific slopes where wind slabs likely exist. Avoid travel on slopes with terrain traps below such as cliffs, creek beds, and deep gullies.

Avalanche Discussion

Observations made yesterday on Tamarack Peak (Mount Rose area) revealed areas of ongoing blowing snow near treeline during SW wind gusts. Signs of unstable wind slabs in that particular area were limited to minor cracking. No signs of ongoing storm slab issues were observed or reported from other areas. No new avalanche activity was reported within the past 24 hours.

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