Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

LOW avalanche danger exists with avalanche activity unlikely today.  Strong winds continue and could start transporting additional snow as the next storm arrives this afternoon.  Slabs of wind drifted snow could start to form with increased avalanche danger for tonight and tomorrow.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Gale force winds will continue today ahead of a weak storm expected to start this afternoon.  Limited amounts of available snow exists for wind transport with firm crusts and wind scoured surfaces present.  Our next storm enters our area this afternoon with up to 1’’ of new snow expected.  Avalanche activity will remain unlikely with these limited new snow amounts.  Additional snow is expected tonight with the possibility of increased wind slab avalanche concerns for tonight and Monday.

    Look for snow showers and blowing snow later today.  If the storm arrives earlier or produces more snow than forecasted, small wind slabs could develop earlier than expected.  Wind slabs will start to form near ridges, in gully features, and in open areas as more storm snow falls.

Avalanche Discussion

Mostly cloudy skies and strong winds should limit any wet snow formation today.

Expect variable snow surface conditions, with supportable and breakable crusts on sun-exposed slopes, wind-affected snow in exposed areas, and patches of softer snow lingering in sheltered and shaded places.

Regions covered