Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Transitioning snow, weather, and avalanche conditions will be the theme of the day. The primary avalanche concern is newly forming wind slabs on leeward north and east aspects above treeline. Observe for isolated areas of unstable snow and travel with caution as surface conditions are bound to be dynamic. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Today's weather will bring about generally safe avalanche conditions. As the day advances and the weather builds, winds will blow from the west and south at light to strong speeds. Wind slabs will develop on leeward north and east aspects above treeline. This occurrence will be the main concern today. Very little existing snow remains available for transport. Only a dusting of new snow is expected today, with roughly 3–5 inches falling tonight. Thus, winds will have limited ammunition to begin building drifts with until later in the forecast period. Above treeline is the most likely place for riders to encounter developing drifts. Wind deposits tend to form beneath ridgelines, rock outcroppings, and on convex rollovers. Keep these locations in mind and watch for signs and symptoms of instability. Such as, actively blowing snow, cracking/collapsing, and signs of recent avalanches.    

    (1/10/2024)

    Wind transport and active snowfall rapidly accumulating on the leeward (left) side of the ridge

    Photo: Eric Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

Yesterday, temperatures near treeline rose into the mid-60s, saturating snow surfaces on all aspects. Since then, temperatures have steadily decreased to near freezing levels. This occurrence has likely formed a widespread surface crust on the majority of aspects and elevations and abated the wet loose avalanche problem. Nevertheless, there is still a chance of encountering wet loose snow in areas that have not sufficiently refrozen, or where rain has re-saturated the surface snow. Watch and assess for areas of damp snow in steep terrain that are behaving poorly. The same goes for cornices. Freezing temperatures will help stabilize their masses, but it's best not to be overly confident near them.    The incoming snow will be received by primarily firm and hard surfaces. Bonding capabilities will be mediocre at best. Variable surfaces mean sporty riding conditions. Shred and travel with caution.   Both skier triggered, and natural wet-loose avalanches were observed yesterday. Find out more HERE.  

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