THIS AVALANCHE FORECAST EXPIRED ON January 3, 2019 @ 6:50 am
Avalanche Forecast published on January 2, 2019 @ 6:50 am
Issued by Steve Reynaud - Tahoe National Forest

LOW avalanche danger will continue throughout the forecast region at all elevations.  Normal caution is advised.

1. Low

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Above Treeline
Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

1. Low

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Near Treeline
Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

1. Low

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Below Treeline
Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.
    Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.
Avalanche Problem 1: Normal Caution
  • Type ?

Strong winds over the last week have created scoured snow surfaces and wind effected snow conditions at most all elevations.  In some wind exposed areas, firm and icy crusts exist that have potential fall hazards.  Finding consistent soft snow has become more challenging in protected below treeline terrain with a mix of snow conditions present.  Avalanche activity remains unlikely today.

Practice good travel techniques when in the backcountry by having a travel plan, communicating within your group, and managing any terrain hazards.  

 

recent observations
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*  At Indian Valley on Tuesday (Ebbetts Pass area) a light dusting of new snow was seen with moderate NE winds and some snow transport throughout the day.  The shallow snowpack continues to weaken and facet in this area.

*  Observations near Mt. Tallac (Desolation Wilderness Area) on Monday showed a shallow snowpack near and below 7400'.  Ice and rock existed with overall poor travel conditions.

*  A relatively shallow snowpack exists throughout the forecast region with 2-3' of snow or less in most areas.  The shallow snowpack continues to weaken and facet over time with cold temperatures and clear skies.  These weak layers could represent a problem during future loading events.  

Weather and CURRENT CONDITIONS
weather summary

High pressure continues to be in place over our region with a warming trend this week, lighter winds, and dry conditions.  Confidence is growing that a winter storm will impact our area this weekend on Saturday and Sunday.  There is the possibility that a wet pattern could continue into the following week.

CONDITIONS ALONG THE SIERRA CREST BETWEEN 8200 FT. AND 9200 FT. IN THE LAST 24 HOURS
Weather Station Map
Weather Station Table
6am temperature: 23 to 29 deg. F.
Max. temperature: 29 deg. F.
Average ridgetop wind direction: E
Average ridgetop wind speed: 20 to 45 mph
Maximum ridgetop wind gust: 74 mph
New snowfall: 0 to trace inches
Total snow depth: 31 to 37 inches
Two-Day Mountain Weather Forecast Produced in partnership with the Reno NWS
For 7000 ft. to 8000 ft.
Wednesday Wednesday Night Thursday
Weather: Sunny. Snow levels below 7000 feet. Chance of precipitation is 0%. Clear then becoming partly cloudy. Snow levels below 7000 feet. Chance of precipitation is 0%. Partly cloudy. Snow levels below 7000 feet. Chance of precipitation is 0%.
Temperatures: 37 to 42. deg. F. 21 to 26. deg. F. 40 to 45. deg. F.
Mid Slope Winds: Light winds. Light winds. Light winds.
Expected snowfall: No accumulation. | SWE = none. No accumulation. | SWE = none. No accumulation. | SWE = none.
For 8000 ft. to 9000 ft.
Wednesday Wednesday Night Thursday
Weather: Sunny. Snow levels below 7000 feet. Chance of precipitation is 0%. Clear then becoming partly cloudy. Snow levels below 7000 feet. Chance of precipitation is 0%. Partly cloudy. Snow levels below 7000 feet. Chance of precipitation is 0%.
Temperatures: 34 to 39. deg. F. 21 to 26. deg. F. 37 to 42. deg. F.
Ridge Top Winds: East 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph decreasing to 25 mph in the afternoon. South 10 to 15 mph with gusts to 25 mph. Southwest 10 to 15 mph with gusts to 25 mph.
Expected snowfall: No accumulation. | SWE = none. No accumulation. | SWE = none. No accumulation. | SWE = none.
Disclaimer

This avalanche forecast is provided through a partnership between the Tahoe National Forest and the Sierra Avalanche Center. This forecast covers the Central Sierra Nevada Mountains between Yuba Pass on the north and Ebbetts Pass on the south. Click here for a map of the forecast area. This forecast applies only to backcountry areas outside established ski area boundaries. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur. This forecast expires 24 hours after the posted time unless otherwise noted. The information in this forecast is provided by the USDA Forest Service who is solely responsible for its content.

For a recorded version of the avalanche forecast call (530) 587-3558 x258