Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago.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

The avalanche danger is LOW.  The only usable snowpack in the forecast area exists above 8,000' on Mt. Shasta.  Most of this snow was deposited in late October and early November and is well-consolidated. The current and forecasted weather should keep the snow surface firm over the next several days.  New precipitation amounts will be minimal and should not increase the avalanche danger.

Avalanche Discussion

A series of atmospheric river events in late October and early November brought above average amounts of water to Mt. Shasta, coating the upper mountain with several feet of snow.  Above 8,000' this snowpack has persisted and transformed into a robust, well-consolidated base, with a variety of surfaces.  The unseasonably warm weather of the past couple of weeks has produced spring-like, melt/freeze snow conditions on the mountain.  The pattern looks to change starting tonight, and the next week will bring cooler temperatures, high winds, and very light precipitation.  This will not appreciably increase the avalanche danger on the mountain, but it will limit the quality of skiing and riding due to frozen snow surfaces.  

The main concern on Mount Shasta for skiers and riders is hidden obstacles, and rock/ice fall and slide-for-life conditions for climbers. Bring an ice axe, a helmet, and crampons if ascending high into the alpine. Know how to use your equipment.

Are you new to winter backcountry adventures or just need a refresher? Now is the time to prepare for the season. Consider attending one of our avalanche awareness and companion rescue clinics to review your knowledge and skills. The first classes are December 11th and 12th:

The USFS National Avalanche Center also provides a nice Avalanche Tutorial.

Tree cutting and 4x4 activity is not allowed at Bunny Flat. Review your tree cutting and motorized vehicle maps.

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