Central Sierra Nevada

LOW avalanche danger will continue at all elevations through the forecast region.  Triggering an avalanche is unlikely, but isolated areas of instability are not impossible.  Normal caution is advised when traveling in the backcountry.

Normal caution

Triggering an avalanche has become unlikely as our snowpack continues to gain strength.  With that said, a high degree of variability continues to exist throughout the forecast region with the potential for unstable snow in isolated areas. 

Wind slabs:  Moderate to strong SW/W winds will continue today.  Limited blowing snow is still expected due to wind scoured snow surfaces and crusts not having much in the way of available snow for wind transport.  If we do get a trace to 1'' of new snow today, some light blowing snow could occur, but should remain limited.  Any wind slabs that form today are expected to be  small in size. 

Deep persistent slab:  The vast majority of areas continue to show increased strength and stability on these old buried weak layers, but reports of unstable snowpack test results continue to be recorded in isolated areas of the forecast region.  The last deep slab avalanche that we know of occurred 7 days ago on Feb 2.   

Practice normal caution when traveling in the backcountry.  Make sure to develop a plan before you head out with your group and practice good communication throughout the day.  If you see signs of instabilities, be prepared to change plans to a more conservative option.  Travel one at a time through avalanche terrain, regroup out of avalanche terrain, and utilize options that limit time spent in avalanche terrain. 

Recent Observations:

*  Unstable snowpack test results from High Meadows in the Luther Pass area were observed yesterday.  ECTP results on the deeply buried persistent weak layer showing that propagation is still possible.

* The snow surface is a mix of wind scoured surfaces, crusts, and transitional snow on most aspects and elevations.  Unconsolidated snow can still be found in below treeline northerly aspects above 8000'.

* Signs of old wind slab and old deep persistent slab avalanches from Jan 26 through Feb 4 are visible in many locations around the forecast area.

* Snowpit data has shown strength gains at all heights in the snowpack. The recent storm snow that makes up the top half to two-thirds of the snowpack has bonded well. Old deeper weak layers in the lower portion of the snowpack have significantly reduced reactivity or signs of instability in snowpit tests. These deeper layers do not gain strength at the same rate in all locations so there will continue to be isolated unstable test results that should not be ignored and could be some of the only clues to isolated lingering deep instability.