Eastern Sierra - Tue Apr 13 2010
Eastern Sierra avalanche advisory |
| The avalanche danger rating is MODERATEtoday in steep, north facing windloaded terrain..Watch out for steep convex rollovers under ridgetops. |
Skies are mostly sunny this morning and winds are light from the west and northwest.A warming trend begins today that continues through Thursday.
An observer reported heavy dense snow with no red flags of instability yesterday on a steep slope in theTioga Pass area yesterday. Josh found no propagation on ECT tests and no whumpfing or shooting cracks yesterday at the south end of the Sherwin Ridge. He found a significant amount of sluffing in steep terrain in the Punta Bardini area yesterday.
With the passage of time, clear skies and no precipitation, the avalanche danger has diminshed from Considerable to Moderate in wind loaded terrain today.
The return of high pressure over the next few days ensures sunny skies and light winds until the end of the week. High temperatures will climb about 10 degrees tody and expect highs in the Mammoth area to reach the upper 30's. Higher terrain will see highs in the mid 20's with light southwest winds in the Mammoth area.
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.
