Truckee, CA – A backcountry avalanche warning has been issued for the Sierra Nevada, including the greater Lake Tahoe area, as up to three feet of snow and gale-force winds create dangerous conditions. The warning is in effect from 5 p.m. Wednesday until 6 a.m. Thursday.
According to the U.S. Forest Service Sierra Avalanche Center, the warning covers the central Sierra Nevada Mountains between Yuba Pass (Highway 49) and Ebbetts Pass (Highway 4). This does not include ski resorts or highways where avalanche mitigation is in place.
Authorities warn that natural avalanches are likely, and human-triggered slides large enough to bury or injure people are very likely. Rapid snowfall accumulation, combined with strong winds, is expected to create widespread instability in backcountry terrain.
Officials strongly discourage travel in, near, or below avalanche-prone areas until conditions improve. Those planning outdoor activities in the region should check avalanche forecasts and take necessary precautions.
For the latest updates and safety information, visit the Sierra Avalanche Center at sierraavalanchecenter.org or avalanche.org. Similar avalanche risks may exist outside the advisory area.
