Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

A turn to warm weather has caused snow surfaces to soften. The potential for wet snow instability exists near and below treeline on sunny aspects that face west, south, and east. Terrain management is your best defense on steep slopes holding wet snow. Look for pinwheels and roller balls to gauge any building hazard. Expect variable travel conditions, especially above treeline, where harder surfaces exist.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    The warmest weather the forecast area has experienced in months has arrived. After a poor overnight re-freeze and expected daytime temperatures in the 50s, snow surfaces near and below treeline will continue to weaken. Surfaces will be most unstable during the heat of the day. This problem is specific to steep, sunny slopes holding wet, penetrable snow. While not life- or limb-threatening, it could have consequences in steep, concave terrain where snow can funnel and build up. Recognize and identify terrain traps. Pinwheels and roller balls will be the first signs of rising instability. Sinking into damp snow that exceeds your boot cuff means it's time to move off steep slopes and seek shadier terrain.

    Damp and greasy roller balls on a south, southeast aspect near treeline. Signs like this are precursors to bigger issues  

    Photo: Eric Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

Hope everyone has been treating themselves to some vitamin D! If not, today and tomorrow will be the warmest days of the week before stormy weather arrives this weekend. Don’t forget the sunscreen.

While it may feel like spring down low, the alpine holds firm and slick surfaces. If you're tempted to venture into steep alpine terrain, crampons, ice axe, and helmet are a must. Slide-for-life conditions and overhead hazards exist.  

I'd like to think there are some corn-like conditions developing out there. However, there's a fine line between corn, and mashed potatoes. 

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