Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Stable conditions exist, and avalanche activity is unlikely. The greatest concern will be mild wet loose instabilities as temperatures climb through the day. If snow surfaces begin to feel wet, mushy, and unsupportable, it's time to exit avalanche terrain. Rockfall and icefall should be expected from upper mountain cliffs (Casaval, Trinity Chutes, Red Banks). 

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    This problem is mostly listed in preparation for what's to come. Today's sunny, clear weather will start a warming trend over the next few days. As temperatures begin to rise, surface snow will begin to destabilize in the form of wet instabilities. It's possible significant warming could happen today, but expectations are less severe. Wet loose avalanches will be possible on most below and near treeline terrain, with particular emphasis on solar aspects. Peak instability will be in the late afternoon, when temperatures have warmed and the sun is still high in the sky. On your travels, keep your eye out for signs of warming surface snow such as sticky snow surfaces, roller balls on steep terrain, and wet loose avalanches on test slopes. As these signs become more prevalent, consider moving off of steep slopes.

Avalanche Discussion

Today marks the beginning of a stretch of high pressure. Temperatures will continue to rise, skies will remain clear, and no precipitation is expected. For the next 24 hours, these temperatures should remain normal to slightly above for this time of year. Tuesday and onward is a different story. Warming will eventually reach a hazardous level resulting in rockfall, icefall, and wet loose avalanches. As we enter this warm period, keep your avalanche mindset sharp with terrain assessment and route choice.    Overall, today should be a beautiful, calm, clear day to get out on the home mountain. If you time it right, ski conditions might improve as surfaces soften.    Yesterday, forecasters traveled to the Ash Creek Butte area to assess access and snow conditions. Pilgrim Creek Snow Park is clear of snow, allowing you to drive at least a few miles up the road before consistent coverage. The forecasters found it best to transition to snowmobiles around the Sugar Pine Butte area on the 19 Road. Ash Creek Butte still has excellent coverage on all aspects, but the quality of the snow is less than ideal. Widespread firm, and supportable surfaces were found across the zone, with an inch or two of softer snow on top. The best conditions were found in the trees off of the east bowl, where maximum shade and protection exists. Read the full observation HERE.   April 14th will be our last daily forecast for the season.  To celebrate an excellent season, please join us for our Community and Member Appreciation Party where we will have FREE food, drinks, and live music!  

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