Central Sierra Nevada

Avalanche activity continues to be unlikely throughout the forecast region . Increased winds today could create some blowing snow at higher elevations, but snow transport is expected to remain light.  Change your travel plans if you see any signs of unstable snow or unexpected conditions.

Normal caution

Triggering an avalanche remains unlikely today.  Increased East winds could transport some amounts of snow at the higher elevations of the forecast region.  These winds are forecasted to be well below the wind speeds of the last East wind event on Jan 8-9.  Most wind exposed locations have been thoroughly scoured with little available snow left for wind transport.  Any new wind slab development today is expected to be small, isolated, and not extend very far downslope.  Be prepared to change plans if you see signs of unstable snow or unexpected conditions developing.

Observations and data from around the forecast area show a snowpack that is gaining strength and consolidating.  Recent gale force winds have left wind scoured snow surfaces at upper elevations.  These near and above treeline areas are highly variable with firm wind board, dense wind slab, large uneven wind features, and areas scoured down to firm rain crust.  Softer snow with improved travel conditions can be found in more wind protected below treeline terrain.  Snow surface conditions have begun to transition on many slopes with increased sun and temperatures over the last couple days.  Sun crusts have developed on sun exposed slopes with wet snow forming as daytime warming occurs.  Better snow quality should still remain on more shaded wind protected aspects.

Deep, open holes, open creeks, and ponded water persist around the forecast area. These deep holes and open creek areas are especially prominent below 8,000' in low lying areas, but have been observed at higher elevations.