Eastside Region

Triggering an avalanche remains unlikely. Be aware of the potential for isolated instabilities in extreme terrain, and prepare for challenging travel over variable surfaces. 

Today we are expecting clear skies, cold temperatures, and moderate winds from the northern half of the compass rose. Slick surfaces above and below small amounts of sugary snow can make travel difficult, and may create small loose snow instabilities that can knock you off your feet. Be aware of the heightened consequences of a fall in exposed terrain, and in areas with many shallowly buried obstacles. 

A variety of surface types exist, including supportable and breakable crusts, scoured surfaces, slick wind board, and icy slopes. Specialized tools like an ice axe and ski/boot crampons can help make travel more pleasant and reduce the hazard of a slip and fall. Now is a great time for practicing mountain travel skills, getting eyes on terrain you'd like to visit later when it snows, and tuning up your gear. If you'd like to practice avalanche rescue, the Beacon Basin practice course is open at Mammoth Mountain!