Avalanche forecast

Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Bridgeport Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Gale-force wind-driven snow will increase the possibility of wind slab formations in and above the treeline today.  Expect to see rapid changes in snow stability as the bulk of the storm enters the region  Saturday evening. Take caution when traveling in leeward areas to avoid fresh wind slab formations. A natural avalanche cycle is expected with this storm. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind-driven snow remains a concern in isolated pockets and leeward terrain features. The amount of snow available for transport remains small, however, with the incoming storm, strong gusts could create fresh drifts and slabs. When touring on these windy days, the snow often accumulates in areas where humans take shelter, on leeward features protected by the wind. Pay attention to the signs of blowing snow as these slabs will be tender and sensitive to triggering, albeit small due to the amount of snow available  for transport. 

    A naturally triggered wind slab in the start zone. 

Avalanche Discussion

A big shift in the weather begins to impact the area starting on Saturday.  The first noticeable change in the weather will be increasing south-southwest winds with gusts as high as 100-120 mph along the ridges and gusty winds in the lower elevations. At this time, Mono county has the greatest chance for impactful wind gusts of 50-60+ mph to work its way into population centers and major roadway arteries (US-395), particularly late Saturday night. Elsewhere, max gusts look to be in the 35-45 mph range with higher gusts in wind-prone areas possible.

Regions covered