Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Continued strong winds and new snow will form slabs of wind-blown snow in exposed areas.  These wind slabs will form below ridges, in gully features, in open areas, and will be large enough to cause problems for backcountry users today.  Make a plan to move around areas where unstable snow exists.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Gale force SW winds will continue for today with upper ridge gusts up to 80 to 100mph.  Light snow yesterday along with strong winds built out small wind slabs and cornices.  Additional snow overnight and today will build larger wind slabs in near and above treeline areas.  Wind slabs and cornices are expected to be large enough to be problematic for backcountry users today.

    Look for blowing snow, cornice formation, and wind pillows as clues to where wind slabs are forming.  Wind exposed areas will be unpleasant today with better snow quality in more wind protected terrain.  Look for places with unstable snow and move around these areas of concern.

    (3/11/2024)

    Wind transport yesterday with cornice development and building wind slab.

    Donner Summit area.

Regions covered