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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Small to large wind slabs are possible above treeline on Mount Shasta. The problem can best be managed by sticking to wind scoured terrain and avoiding overhead hazard and wind loaded features. Firm surfaces, hidden obstacles and strong westerly winds are additional hazards in the alpine.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    New snow with moderate to strong west winds has created potential for slab avalanches in alpine terrain on Mount Shasta. Avalanches could range from small to large and are located where there is a preexisting snow surface. They will be less likely on west aspects. However, due to strong to extreme winds at the uppermost elevations on Shasta, they may be found in irregular locations. The best way to manage the hazard is by avoiding features of concern, overhead hazard and sticking to wind scoured areas or lower angle slopes. Signs to watch out for include blowing snow and cracking or collapsing on small test slopes. When stepping out into alpine terrain features, take note of changes in surface condition and ski or boot penetration. The consequences of being caught in even a small slide are high due to shallowly buried rocks and slide for life conditions. 

Avalanche Discussion

Active weather returns to the forecast zone following nearly a month-long drought. Precipitation began yesterday, tapering off this morning before the next system arrives later today. Storm totals equate to about an inch of water near treeline with the majority falling as rain below about 8,500 to 9,000 feet. Expect about 6 to 10 inches of new snow above 9,500 to 10,000 feet. Snow depths at the Old Ski Bowl weather station have been on an abrupt decline, down to about 3.5 inches from 8 inches two days prior. The snow that did fall is largely above treeline on Mount Shasta, which is also the zone holding the bulk of early season snow. Starting zones and ridgelines in alpine terrain that hold preexisting coverage are the area’s most likely to produce avalanches from wind drifted snow today. Old snow surfaces are firm and variable, including significant wind texture and thick melt-freeze crusts. Exposed and shallowly buried obstacles are abundant. In the west side of the zone, coverage is limited to all but the highest north-facing terrain.

Visit our observation page for recent conditions updates in the forecast zone and please consider submitting one yourself! We appreciate them all! This Friday, December 19th, the Avalanche Center will be hosting its annual movie night, which will be a double feature! See our events page for a description of both films and more venue details. Doors open at 5:30 pm at Mountain Medics and the films start at 7:00 pm. Bring your stoke as winter weather returns!

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