Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Stay attentive near and above treeline for wind blowing snow and wind slabs in steep terrain. The 4 feet of low density snow that has fallen over the past week continues to settle out.  Few signs of avalanche danger have been observed, but don't let your guard down.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Above treeline observations have been limited, and some uncertainty exists with regard to how sensitive recently formed wind slabs might be.  Yesterday, widespread wind blowing snow was visible from afar on Mt. Shasta. Snow surfaces were also visibly effected. Simply, blowing snow means wind slabs. Plenty of low density snow remains available for wind transport. Signs that a wind slab may have formed include cornices above the slope, wind drifted snow and other wind-created surface textures. For today, I think it's prudent to be cautious on steeper terrain near and above treeline, 35 degrees plus, where signs of wind slabs are present. Yesterday, the wind shifted from S-SW to W-NW and even a little E-SE.

Avalanche Discussion

Warmer temperatures and that good 'ol California sun will help consolidate the seemingly bottomless storm snow received over the past week. Five inches of settlement has already been recorded at Old Ski Bowl weather station. 

Everitt Memorial Highway (EMH) and Castle Lake Roads are closed. Unfortunately, it's still unknown when the road will open. One piece of equipment is down with a mechanical. We will keep you updated as soon as we learn information.

Pilgrim Creek Snowmobile Park is open. Some grooming operations have commenced. 

Regions covered