Eastern Sierra Avalanche Advisory 11/17/2025

Fall storms brought snow in mid-October and early November, followed by a long, warm period. The most recent round of precipitation, which began on the 13th, came in warmer than expected with high snowlines and rain below about 10,500’. Temperatures have been dropping and snow has started to accumulate down to 8,000’.

That means most new snow has fallen on bare ground. The exceptions are high-elevation, northerly terrain features that held onto their early-season snow. These isolated features hold a layered snowpack consisting of well-developed facets near the ground, capped by a melt-freeze crust. Our recent snowfall is sitting on top of this crust.

Where new snow falls on bare ground, avalanches will be unlikely until enough accumulates to cover rocks and bushes. The biggest concern will be on slopes with continuous coverage where wind has drifted new snow. Coincidentally, these are also the most attractive slopes for riding.

As of today, November 17th, periods of moderate to heavy snow are expected. Continued winter weather is forecasted throughout the week. Temperatures will continue to decrease. Winds will be variable in direction and speed. Moving ahead, remember that avalanches are most likely during or immediately following a storm.

Getting caught in an early-season avalanche often has elevated consequences that involve hitting obstacles on the way down. Thin coverage persists, even on slopes where avalanches are less likely. Don’t let early-season excitement lead to a season-ending injury.

ESAC has begun the process of reopening for the 2025-2026 season, and we are excited for new snow! We will continue to update this early-season advisory as the snowpack evolves, and we will begin daily forecasts as soon as conditions allow. In the meantime, we have a few suggestions on things you can do to prepare for a successful backcountry season.

• Start your season with us at our annual Kickoff event and Snow Avalanche Workshop this Saturday.
• Use our Weather Resource page to track current conditions.
• Check out our Online Avalanche Education page for a wide variety of free online resources.
• If you head into the mountains, let us know what you see. Our Observations page is waiting for you.

As you may know, the recent Pack Fire destroyed homes in McGee Creek. Visit the Mammoth Community Foundation to help support our community.

Full Forecast ➝