Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

MODERATE avalanche continues at all elevations. Loose wet avalanches are possible today on all aspects because of warm temperatures and strong sun. Monitor for changing conditions and be ready for rising hazard as the day progresses. 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Temperatures at remote weather stations are warmer this morning than yesterday at the same time. In addition, there was a weaker refreeze of the snow surface overnight as indicated by the surface temperature sensor mid-mountain at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. Clear skies overnight may have helped overcome these influences with a refreeze of the snow surface, but warmer temperatures today and strong sun will prevail leading to a quick softening of the snow. The possibility of Wet Loose avalanches will rise more quickly today as a result.

    Sunny aspects facing E, S, and W will be most concerning, but more northerly aspects can not be ruled out due to higher temperatures today. Last week’s snow has not fully transitioned and may present as sticky at first, but when warmed by direct sun or indirectly by warming rocks could become wetter and potentially unstable.

Avalanche Discussion

Timing is critical during periods of warm weather like we are experiencing right now. Start your day early to be out of steep terrain during the heat of the day.

Be watchful for early warning signs of potentially unstable wet loose snow such as rollerballs & pinwheels, increasing boot or ski penetration, and even rockfall. These may indicate the potential for point release slides in, or originating from steep terrain. Retreat to shadier aspects or lower angle terrain if you experience any of these red-flags. Consider your exposure to overhead hazards even if you are in lower angle terrain.

We will continue to emphasize the variable conditions present in the backcountry right now. Thin cover, hard snow and three-dimensional surfaces abound. Below tree-line you may encounter unsupportive, iso-thermal snow making for treacherous riding in some areas. Mountaineering skills and tools are important right now for safe travel in the alpine. Keep the crampons (boot and ski) and self-arrest tools (ice-axe, whippet) close at hand to prevent and/or arrest a slip or fall on firm, slick surfaces. Don’t forget your helmet if you plan on traveling in terrain exposed to rockfall.

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