Eastern Sierra - Mon Apr 5 2010
Eastern Sierra avalanche advisory |
| The avalanche danger is HIGH today. Natural avalanches are likely and human triggered slides are very likely in ALL steep wind drifted terrain mainly on north aspects at the mid and upper elevations. The danger rating applies to Bishop Creek, Rock Creek, Convict Creek, and the Mammoth/June Mountain areas. |
The powerful storm dropped over 20 inches of new snow in the Mammoth and June Mountain areas overnight. The southern Sierra picked up over a foot of new snow and it continues to snow at rates greater than one inch per hour. Southwesterly winds are blowing in the Mammoth area with gusts to 40 mph. West winds with gusts to 40 mph are blowing in the Bishop Creek and Ellery Lake area. Cold temperatures ranging from 10-18F thsi morning won't get much higher today.
Heavy snow continues this morning followed by scattered snow showers this afternoon. As skies clear by this evening, night time lows will plummet to the single digits and low teens in all locations.
The storm leaves the area tonight followed by a warming trend of 10 degrees each day until later in the week.
Please note that the avalanche danger rating in this advisory expires in 24 hours. This advisory is our best interpretation of snow pack conditions and NWS forecasts issued today. Backcountry travelers should be aware that elevation and geographic distinctions are approximate and that a transition zone exists between upper and lower elevations. Avalanches do not happen by accident and most human involvement is a matter of choice not chance. Most avalanche accidents are caused by slab avalanches that are triggered by the victim of member of the victim's party. Even small slides can be dangerous. Always practice route finding skills and carry avalanche rescue gear. Remember that avalanche danger ratings are only general guidelines. Distinctions between geographic areas, elevations, slope aspects and slope angles should be made.
ESAC is operating on a limited budget and is supported by its members and the community. Please help support the Center by becoming a member today. Visit the Support area for more information.
