Mount Shasta

North wind has ruled the roost this week. Triggering an avalanche has grown unlikely, but may not be impossible. Stiff slabs of wind-blown snow still exist near ridges and gullies.  Be willing to change plans if you see different conditions than expected or any signs of unstable snow. 

Normal caution is advised today. You've heard it already: northerly wind has ravaged the snowpack. Left behind is wild sastrugi features, scoured icy surfaces and stiff, smooth slabs of wind-blown snow on near and above treeline slopes. Variable wind-affected snow surfaces also extend into some open areas below treeline. Most snow available for transport has already moved along, so new wind slab formation and blowing snow should remain limited. Triggering an avalanche has grown unlikely as the dense wind slabs gain strength. Still, it may not be impossible on an isolated slope, especially in complex terrain around cliffs where an unsupported wind slab may exist. Large cornices may also still linger. Soft, more consistent snow still exists in wind-sheltered terrain at lower elevation areas on northerly aspects. Always pay attention to changing conditions and any isolated signs of instability.