Avalanche forecast

Central Sierra Nevada

Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

Loose wet avalanche activity will become possible at all elevations as daytime warming occurs today.  MODERATE avalanche danger will exist.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Loose wet avalanches will become possible as daytime warming occurs today.  Well above average temperatures with light winds will lead to rapid warming in the late morning hours.  Overnight temperature inversions have made for above freezing temperatures at most locations above 7500-8000'.  Loose wet avalanches could involve all the recent storm snow sliding on the previous surface crusts.

    Early to mid-morning will be the best time to travel on sunny aspects.  As the snow surface warms and gets heavier, deteriorating conditions will exist with increasing likelihood of loose wet avalanches.  Once the snow becomes wet and punchy, or roller balls and pinwheels start to occur, it will be time to change aspects or call it a day.  Small loose wet avalanches could have increased consequences with our low snowpack conditions with many rocks and obstacles present.

Avalanche Discussion

Warm and variable conditions were reported yesterday from Rubicon Peak (West Shore area), Mt. Tallac (Desolation Wilderness area), and Castle Peak (Donner Summit area).  Wet and sticky snow was seen on all aspects by late morning with some areas of previous wind-blown snow in exposed areas.  Minor roller balls were reported with light NE winds helping to keep the snow surface somewhat cool at the higher elevations.

 

Regions covered