Alpine Meadows - Snow Statistics

The following charts summarize snow and water statistics compiled by the professional patrol since 1970. These statistics represent but a small portion of the total amount of data compiled by the patrol with respect to snow and weather conditions which affect the area.

In addition to snow and water accumulation, information relating to snow and air temperature, cloud cover, wind speed and direction, slide path activity and general snow pack profiles are kept by the pro patrol's Avalanche Forecaster. This information is provided to U.S. Forestry and to the West Wide Avalanche Forecasting Center at Fort Collins Colorado, where it is combined with other data from reporting areas throughout the country.

Alpine Meadows is one of the more significant areas in the U.S. as far as avalanche activity is concerned. There are over 350 specific locations around the mountain where 2 lb. sticks of dynamite are thrown to trigger potential avalanches to prevent natural release which could cause damage and/or injury. During storm conditions, when hand charges are not possible, W.W. II 105mm rifles (one fixed, one mobile) are used on the high ridges. In addition, a gas powered launcher, using a 2 lb. projectile, is used on some of the lower ridges.

Click here to view snow statistics chart.

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Alpine Meadows Snow Statistics