Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Wind slabs ranging in size and sensitivity may be possible today. Be on the lookout for freshly deposited snow on all aspects near and above treeline. Be wary of terrain features that elevate the consequences of an avalanche.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Small amounts of new snow combined with shifting strong winds may create fresh wind deposits in leeward catchment zones on all aspects today. While we do not expect these fresh deposits to be large in size, they are likely to be touchy. Keep in mind that even a relatively small avalanche can have elevated consequences above terrain traps or in complex and exposed terrain. Watch for clues like blowing snow, large fresh drifts, and hollow upside-down feeling snow. Be suspect of terrain features that encourage drifting, such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, alpine couloirs, mid-slope convex rollovers, and cross-loaded depressions

    (1/24/2023)

    A large natural wind slab avalanche in Bishop Creek

Avalanche Discussion

Rising hazards today will be driven by new snow accumulations. Fresh wind deposits will be larger in size and more extensive in distribution in areas that see more snow today. Conversely, fresh deposits will be more limited in areas that see little or no accumulation. It will be important to conduct your own localized assessments if you head into the backcountry today.

In addition to fresh wind slab concerns, It may still be possible to trigger an avalanche in areas where older dense snow rests on weak faceted snow or facet crust combos. Recent field observations indicate that while areas with this concerning structure are isolated in nature, they may still be reactive to human triggers. This may make for tricky conditions to navigate. Surface clues won't be enough to identify areas with this concerning structure. If you happen to find just the wrong spot propagation may happen quickly and without warning.  Keep in mind that even a small avalanche can have large consequences in complex and challenging terrain. When in doubt play it safe, by sticking to more simple and sheltered terrrain.

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