Avalanche forecast

Eastside Region

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

LOW avalanche danger exists at all elevations. Increasing winds may lead to areas of fresh wind slab development near and above treeline today. Leeward catchment zones on northerly and easterly aspects and unsupported slopes in extreme terrain will be potential problem areas. Identify features of concern and be on the lookout for isolated areas of unstable snow.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Areas with loose surface snow have become pretty hard to find near and above treeline.  However, winds are expected to be very strong out of the southwest today with gusts approaching 100mph at ridge tops.  Be on the lookout for isolated areas of fresh windslab if you decide to venture into the backcountry today.  Terrain features that encourage drifting such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions deserve evaluation. Keep in mind that even a small otherwise inconsequential avalanche could lead to a bad fall in exposed or committing terrain. Blowing snow, fresh drifting, stiff hollow feeling upside-down snow, and freshly textured, uneven snow surfaces are all signs of recent wind transport. Use these signs to identify and avoid steep slopes with recent wind deposits.  

Avalanche Discussion

Beyond the risk of isolated instabilities, there are real hazards posed by the highly variable and sometimes challenging surface conditions that exist throughout the forecast area.  While sheltered northerly aspects have been holding soft recrystallized surface snow, recent observations also highlight a variety of surface crusts.  Don’t be surprised to find thin melt-freeze crusts on solar slopes or at lower elevations, breakable wind board in more wind-exposed areas, and very hard and slick crusts in the alpine. Tools like boot and/ski crampons and an ice ax may be crucial tools depending on where you decide to travel. 

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