Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Moderate avalanche danger will exist in near treeline and above treeline terrain due to wind slab avalanche problems.  Loose wet avalanches could develop today at all elevations especially if we receive more solar radiation than forecasted.  Human triggered avalanches are possible.  Evaluate snow and terrain carefully, identify features of concern.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Winds slabs will be possible on NW-N-NE-E-SE aspects in near treeline and above treeline terrain on slopes steeper than 35 degrees.  Active wind loading should diminish this morning as winds decrease, but existing wind slabs could still be reactive.  Look for blowing snow, cornice formation, wind pillows, snow surface scouring, and any clues as to current or previous wind loading.  Avoid steep wind loaded slopes and areas below cornices.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Loose wet avalanches could develop on E-SE-S-SW-W aspects at all elevations as well as on NW-N-NE aspects below treeline.  The possibility exists for periods of more sunshine today than forecasted.  If rapid warming occurs due to solar radiation, then loose wet avalanche activity could become more widespread.  Small roller balls, wet surface snow, and long periods of full sun, could indicate that larger loose wet avalanches are possible.  Terrain traps, like gullies, can increase the consequences of even a small loose wet avalanche.

Avalanche Discussion

Observations were made yesterday on Incline Lake Peak (Mt. Rose area).  The storm was just beginning in the mid morning hours with a couple inches of new snow.  Winds were strong out of the SW with small wind slabs forming along the summit ridge.  These wind slabs were not reactive at 12pm and were 3-5'' deep.  Storm intensity increased into the afternoon hours.

Regions covered