Eastside Region

Triggering an avalanche will be unlikely, but not impossible. If you see blowing snow, be mindful of small, fresh drifts forming. If you're traveling in the mountains today, plan for variable surface conditions. 

Snow surfaces and snowpack height, distribution, and structure vary greatly throughout our forecast zone right now. Our region received snow and a substantial amount of wind between December 12 and December 14. Favored areas such as Mammoth, Tioga, and near the crest saw up to 2 feet. Extreme south/southwest winds continued, and we picked up a dusting of new snow on December 16. Then we saw a day of strong to extreme northerly winds at ridgelines and higher elevations. Since that event, we've seen daytime temperatures well above freezing, even above 10000'. Overnight temperatures have been at or below freezing levels above about 9500'. You can expect melt-freeze crusts and slick, wind-affected surfaces to be among the many surface types you encounter. Specialized tools (crampon/ice axe) may make for a more pleasant experience and help you navigate this hazard. 

As S/SW winds pick up today, you may be able to find isolated areas with snow available for transport. Take notice of blowing snow, cracking, and stiff hollow snow to alert you to the presence of small wind slab formation. Make localized assessments of leeward catchment zones where a small avalanche could knock you off your feet.