Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year.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

Avalanche hazard will rise as a winter storm brings new snow and strong winds to the region. You could trigger consequential avalanches by this evening. Natural avalanches and shooting cracks under your feet are red flags. As the storm intensifies, stepping back from steep terrain and wind-loaded slopes is the best way to manage the hazard.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    New snow and strong southwest winds will impact the forecast area beginning this afternoon, with precipitation rates increasing significantly overnight. Fresh wind slabs will grow in size and sensitivity throughout the afternoon and into the evening hours. Expect avalanche hazard to rise quickly as new snow begins to accumulate. The leeward sides of ridgelines, confined gully features, and cross-loaded depressions will be areas of greatest concern. Blowing snow, growing cornices, and natural avalanches will point to the most dangerous slopes. Shooting cracks in stiff, textured surface snow means you’ve found unstable wind slabs.

    As the storm intensifies, poor visibility could make it hard to see what’s above you. Monitor for changing conditions and stick to lower-angled slopes and simple terrain without overhead hazard to minimize your exposure.

    (3/7/2025)

    Intentionally triggered D1.5 wind slab avalanche. Near treeline, east aspect.

    Photo: Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

Rising hazard today will largely depend on the timing and intensity of new snow accumulations. Snow totals during daylight hours are not expected to exceed a few inches. However, precipitation rates will increase quickly overnight, with 1-2 ft of new snow expected by tomorrow morning. As snow accumulates this afternoon, storm instabilities, both slabs and sluffs, may become possible in steep and sheltered terrain. Be cautious on or under steep slopes later in the day, and be aware of your exposure to terrain features that increase the consequences of avalanches. You can expect the size and distribution of potential avalanches to increase quickly as snowfall rates intensify. Monitor the weather closely today and be ready to retreat to more simple terrain as the hazard increases.

Regions covered