Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Heightened avalanche danger exists above treeline, where human-triggered wind slab avalanches are possible. If headed onto the upper mountain, diligently assess steep slopes and gullies for wind loaded snow before entering. Warming instability in the form of wet loose avalanches will rise through the day, on W-SW-S-SE-E aspects, below and near treeline. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Wind slab avalanches are possible near and above treeline on all aspects except for N and NE. In the last 24 hours, wind direction has shifted N/NE, quickly redistributing wind blown snow across the forecast area. Field observations from yesterday identified down-slope wind transport into Avalanche Gulch, above treeline. On the northwest face of Gray Butte, small wind slabs were triggered in crossed loaded terrain mid-slope. Expect similar results today. If headed near or above treeline, caution must be taken around steep slopes, in chutes, and near rock outcrops where wind blown snow has accumulated. For the upper mountain, focused assessment should be on the Red Banks, Trinity Chutes, Casaval Ridge, and the AK chutes, where large wind slabs could exist. While assessing slopes, look for shooting cracks, lens shaped surface snow, and unusually deep snow conditions as indicators of wind loading. Using small test slopes with a similar aspect is also a good way to identify larger scale instability. 

    (3/6/2025)

    Clear skies above treeline on Mount Shasta. Northerly wind can be seen blowing down slope into Avalanch Gulch

    Photo: Samuel Clairmont

  • Loose Wet

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

    Today, wet loose avalanches are possible, below and near treeline, on W-SW-S-SE-E aspects. Yesterday's field observations showed how quickly direct sunlight and warming temperatures can destabilize surface snow. Today is expected to be a few degrees warmer, with increased direct sunlight. Wet loose instability will rise through the day, reaching its peak in the late afternoon, where human-triggered slides are possible. Though these avalanches are expected to be small, they can surely push someone off their feet into hazardous terrain. For early indicators, look for warming instability in steep terrain, on exposed solar slopes, and around rock bands. To avoid this issue, start your day early this morning, and exit avalanche terrain before the late afternoon.

    (3/4/2025)

    Recent wet loose avalanche on an east aspect of Green Butte

    Photo: Eric Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

For the next few days, high pressure will dominate the forecast area, bringing sunny skies and warm weather. Today, there are two major factors contributing to the avalanche danger: warming temperatures, and northerly wind. Below and near treeline, keep your eye out for warming surface snow on southerly slopes. Above treeline, fresh wind slabs are possible in steep terrain. See something interesting? Send us an observation!

Climbers, there are a few extra mountain hazards to keep on your radar:

  • Ice/rock fall. Most cliff bands (i.e. Shastarama, Red Banks, Casaval Ridge, Trinity Chutes) are covered in thick rime ice that is ready to shed once temperatures warm enough. This may start today. If you're going to be around those areas, wear a helmet, keep your eye out for smaller chunks before it gets worse, and don't spend time hanging out below them.
  • Firm surfaces. Even with the recent precipitation, surfaces can often be wind scoured and firm above 11,000 feet. It's not uncommon for climbers to take long sliding falls on the upper mountain. Be sure to bring an ice axe, crampons, and know how to use them. 
  • Cold temperatures. Though temperatures may be quite pleasant at Bunny Flat, the upper mountain can still be bitterly cold. Bring extra layers, and prepare for challenging conditions.

For more information on climbing conditions, read the Climbing Advisory HERE. 

Don't forget this weekend: YOUTH Avalanche Awareness and Companion Rescue Day 

Road access information: https://www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/publicworks/page/closures-and-delays

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