Mammoth Lakes, California – Backcountry travel in the Eastern Sierra could turn deadly by Monday afternoon as heavy snow and extreme winds rapidly build unstable slabs across high terrain.
According to the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center, a Backcountry Avalanche Watch is in effect from 7 a.m. Monday through 7 a.m. Tuesday for the eastern Sierra Nevada from Virginia Lakes south to Bishop Creek in Mono and Inyo counties. Avalanche danger is expected to rise to HIGH by Monday afternoon as the storm intensifies.
Forecasters warn that powerful winds will transport fresh snow into leeward slopes, creating widespread areas of unstable snow at mid and upper elevations. Large avalanches may release naturally, and human-triggered slides will be likely on slopes steeper than 30 degrees. Avalanches could run long distances into mature forests, valley floors, and even flat terrain.
The impacted corridor includes terrain near Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, Rock Creek, and the Bishop backcountry. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended. Dangerous conditions may persist into midweek, and additional advisories could follow if snowfall and wind continue.
