This is an archived advisory in relation to an incident on Dec 27

Backcountry Avalanche Forecast
Bridgeport Avalanche Center

Issued: Saturday, December 27, 2025 - 7:00AM
Expires: Sunday, December 28, 2025 - 6:30AM
Author: Nick Bliss

THE BOTTOM LINE

Tapering overnight snowfall will drop today's avalanche hazard to Considerable. But selective terrain choice is still key today as human caused avalanches are likely in isolated pockets. Avoid traveling in large exposed terrain and zones with higher consequence, as the snow pack needs a bit more time to settle. Be patient.

Avalanche Forecast

Avalanche Danger
Saturday, December 27, 2025
Upper Elevations: 3 - Considerable
Middle Elevations: 3 - Considerable
Lower Elevations: 2 - Moderate

(The definitions of Upper, Middle and Low are not shown. It is not clear if this center delineates by specific elevations, treeline, or some other factor.)

Avalanche Problems (1)

Problem #1: Wind Slab

Aspect/Elevation: W through NE through SE all elevations
Likelihood: Likely
Size: Large (D2) to Very Large (D3)

3 days of strong south/southwest winds and 12 iches of SWE has loaded slopes. Multiple temperature fluctuations during the storm has created heavy wind slabbed snow over lighter less dense layers. Look for these problematic wind loaded pockets below ridges, in start zones and above specific steeper consequential terrain. Problem may also exist in isolated pockets of steeper treed gullies and chutes.

Forecast Discussion

    We made access up HWY 108 today but stayed in benign terrain close to the road. Visability remained low as snow showers and winds continued through out the day yesterday and only let up after dark. One take away from yesterdays sled tour was multiple dense over less dense layers that needs time to settle.
	
    Today is the first day in 3 days of heavy storming conditions that will have full sun.  Be cautious as slopes heat up during the late morning sun.
	
    High and cold, north facing slopes with old sugary faceted snow on the ground interface is suspect for zones that may avalanche prone. Human triggered avalanches are likely today, especially in these slabbed up leeward steep slopes that have a garbage base holding the new snow in place.. AVOID IT.
	
    The common message currently in the Sierra amongst all the forecasting centers is to, play safe and give it a few days.. The amount of snow that dropped in a 3 day period needs time to settle. 
	
    While traveling in the backcountry today. Be observant.