Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

MODERATE avalanche hazard exists above treeline today while LOW avalanche hazard persists near and below treeline. Be on the lookout for areas of reactive wind slab in the alpine today and monitor for surface moistening on solar aspects at all elevations. Continue to use safe travel techniques, be on the lookout for areas of unstable snow, and identify features of concern.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Our most recent storm brought snow totals ranging from trace amounts up to 10” in localized areas. Recent observations suggest the highest storm totals are concentrated in the Mammoth area and along the Sierra crest. Strong to extreme northeast winds led to significant wind transport since the storm cleared, stripping many northerly start zones and wind-exposed features to old snow surfaces or to bare ground and leading to variable distribution of new snow.  Winds are expected to drop in velocity today and continue out of the north. Continued slab development will be less likely today; however, it remains possible to find fresh winds slabs sensitive to human triggers in specific areas near and above treeline.  Expect the size and distribution of fresh wind slabs to be greater in areas with higher snow totals. Leeward terrain features and catchment zones on southerly aspects will be areas of primary concern. Be particularly cautious in extreme & complex terrain near and above treeline. Large drifts, recent cornice growth, stiff hollow feeling snow, and uneven snow surfaces are all clues that indicate nearby wind deposits. Do your own localized assessments and be suspect of terrain features that encourage drifting such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, alpine couloirs, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions.

  • Loose Wet

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

    Temperatures will be significantly warmer today with relatively light winds. Some surface moistening and an increased risk of rockfall should be expected on solar aspects today, particularly if winds are less intense than forecasted.  Keep an eye out for early warning signs such as sticky and moist surface snow, rollerballs & pinwheels, and increasing boot penetration. These are clues that may foreshadow larger point-release avalanches. Consequential areas of unstable snow are more likely in areas with higher snow accumulations from our recent storm.  Be wary of your exposure to terrain hazards and be prepared to retreat to more shaded aspects if you notice that surface warming is reaching concerning levels.

Avalanche Discussion

Beyond the concern for unstable snow today it remains important to keep our variable and challenging surface conditions in mind if you decide to head into the backcountry today. Overall the snowpack remains quite thin with a plethora of ”pre-season” obstacles exposed or buried just below the surface. Highly textured, 3-dimensional surfaces are common on all aspects, hard and slick slopes can be found at all elevations, moist, punchy, & sticky snow may make for unpredictable sliding, and dust on crust conditions can make travel difficult on both the ascent and descent. Be prepared with the proper equipment, start early, and be aware of your exposure to terrain hazards such as long steep slopes, cliff bands, thinly covered obstacles, areas of dry ground, tight rocky chokes, and stands of bushes and trees.

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