Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Expect the avalanche hazard to rise to MODERATE  as record high temperatures and the strong April sun impact the area today. Loose wet avalanches will become possible as surface snow moistens throughout the day. Monitor for changing conditions, be on the lookout for rockfall and be ready for rising hazard as the day progresses.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Overnight temperatures have remained above freezing for the last 72 hr. even at upper elevations. Despite a superficial refreeze last night we can expect surface snow to soften quickly today as the temperature climbs and the strong April sun impacts the forecast area. Easterly and northerly aspects contain a more transitional snowpack and may be areas where loose wet sloughing is more likely. Particularly in step areas near rock outcroppings or cliff bands, and tight couloirs with solar inputs where the effects of warming are amplified.  Keep an eye out for early warning signs such as moist punchy surface snow, rollerballs & pinwheels, and increasing boot and ski penetration. These are clues that may foreshadow larger point-release avalanches. Be wary of your exposure to terrain hazards and be prepared to retreat to more shaded aspects and lower angle terrain if you notice that surface warming is reaching concerning levels.

Avalanche Discussion

Spring often brings periods of wide variability. The next few days promise to instill a bit of “seasonal confusion”.  Warm overnight temperatures and record high daytime temps are expected over the next 48 hrs leading to poor overnight “recovery” and continued melt throughout the evening hours. However, temperatures are expected to cool significantly this weekend with sub-freezing temps and light snow showers expected on Monday.  The backcountry enthusiast needs to be equally dynamic this time of year. Conducting your own localized stability assessments and field truthing route selection is crucial.  Extremely thin coverage is limiting the options for travel and approaches are becoming difficult and arduous. Large areas of dry ground, melting lakes, and rising creeks are common throughout the range and may complicate access. Expect to use boot and or ski crampons and an ice ax while slopes are frozen on the ascent and be prepared to retreat before surface snow becomes unconsolidated and unstable. 

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