Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Unsettled weather will bring cooler temperatures, light snow, and strong winds to our area today.  Where new snow exists, small slabs of wind blown snow could form near cornices, in gully features, and in open areas.  New snow amounts are expected to be small, continue to monitor changing conditions in your area.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Southwest winds have been gale force for the last 24 hours and will continue, although decrease some, for today.  The previous snow surface has been wet snow and variable surface crusts on most all aspects and elevations.  With overnight below freezing temperatures, firmer snow surfaces are expected for today.  Light rain and snow fell yesterday afternoon and into the evening with up to 1 to 2 inches of new snow in some areas and another couple inches of snow possible for today.  In areas where new snow exists, blowing snow and new small wind slabs could form below ridges, near cornices, and in gully features.  Any wind slab development today is expected to remain small in size due to limited amounts of available snow for wind transport.

    Monitor snow surface conditions while traveling today.  Look for areas of new snow, blowing snow, and new wind slabs forming.  Firmer snow surfaces could present travel concerns.  Daytime warming is expected to be limited today due to increased cloud cover and strong winds.  Come up with a travel plan that addresses the changing snow and weather conditions.       

Regions covered