FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEbishop_creek_mts

January 25, 2010

INYO SHERIFF

AVALANCHE WARNING IN SOUTH LAKE

Recent winter storms have left particularly vulnerable avalanche zones above South Fork Road Bishop Creek area. According to avalanche expert, Sue Burak, several avalanches have recently occurred in this area more than a day or two after the recent storm. Statistics state that 90 percent of avalanches occur within 24 hours of snowfall.
The recent avalanches in this area are particularly unusual and suggest, The snowpack was unusually unstable on the slopes above the South Fork Road, stated Burak.
With new snow falling it is possible, warns Barak, to overload the avalanche path of concern and release a large avalanche during the next few days. The Inyo County Sheriffs Department is reminding residents and visitors to move quickly through the affected area. Pedestrian activities, and backcountry recreation are not encouraged until further notice.
The Inyo County Road Department has suspended all plowing in this affected area, until the situation stabilizes.
For more information on winter safety or for preparedness guides, please check out the following websites:
www.noaa.gov, www.fema.gov, www.redcross.org, www.dot.ca.gov

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