Mount Shasta

Backcountry travellers will find generally safe avalanche conditions across the forecast area today. Be on the lookout for warm, wet and unstable snow and use caution in steep, extreme terrain where losing your footing could result in being carried through hazardous terrain such as cliffs or trees. 

We have one more day of relatively calm weather for the forecast area as temperatures cooling slightly, increasing cloud cover, and strengthening southerly wind. This weather pattern, combined with a lack of weak layers in the snowpack, leaves us with generally safe avalanche conditions and without a defined avalanche problem. With that being said, there is still a chance of encountering unstable wet snow near and below treeline on all aspects. While unlikely and relatively small, any release of snow has the potential to knock riders off their feet or machine and carry them into a terrain trap. Watch for rising snow surface instabilities by observing for natural wet loose avalanches, roller balls, and increasing boot penetration.   Yesterday, at Castle Lake, Eric and I encountered a few partial cornice falls that likely occurred during the sunshine and higher temperatures earlier in the week. These were small and relatively harmless, especially when compared to the size of the cornices' that they came from. With a cooling trend and increasing cloud cover, the potential of cornice fall is decreasing and won't be a controlling factor for managing avalanche hazard today. Practice safe travel techniques by giving them a wide berth if you're travelling beneath them or on top of them.  

Get ready for fluctuating surfaces and dynamic riding conditions as the snow can change quicker than a cat on a hot tin roof. In areas with rugged terrain, there is a higher chance of slipping and falling. Regardless of whether you're on soft snow or a solid ice sheet, a fall can escalate into a traumatic and uncontrollable situation. If you plan on traveling on steep slopes above the treeline, carry an ice axe, crampons, and helmet to protect yourself in the event of a slip or fall. Several climbers have reached the summit of Mount Shasta this past week. Public observations report very firm and icy ski conditions above Helen Lake. Carrying the equipment and training for self arrest are essential whether you're going up or down the mountain. Stay alert for falling rime ice as it starts to fall from well-known cliff formations like the Red Banks.