Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Over the last week the snowpack saw rapid changes and will need time to adjust to the new load. Predominant southerly winds created wind slabs on W-NW-N-NE-E aspects near and above treeline. Triggering an avalanche remains likely on, below, or adjacent to ridgelines and convex slopes steeper than 30 degrees.  Look for the five red flags of avalanche danger at all times. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–3

    Slopes west through east on the top half of the compass are most heavily wind loaded and it's safe to assume that the higher in elevation you travel, the more prevalent and monstrous these wind slabs will become. Giving areas where snow has drifted or been built into cornices a wide berth today would be prudent. These could be triggered by the weight of a single person. Recent avalanches, blowing snow, wind pillows and snow surface clues all indicate the presence of wind slabs. 

    (1/15/2023)

    Direct evidence that cornices along ridgelines are reactive and could break beneath your feet if you find yourself near one.

    Photo: N. Meyers

Avalanche Discussion

The time has come for the 9th annual Shasta Ascension Backcountry Race and Snow Ball. January 21st at 10 am at the Ski Park. Registration is $50 and can be found HERE. Tickets for the Snow Ball can be purchased at the Fifth Season, so get yours today. Also, the 3rd annual Virtual Silent Auction is now live. Check it out and bid down on some rad auction items before it's too late. 

 When the snowpack is in question, terrain is the answer...if you're not in avalanche terrain, you can't get caught in an avalanche! 

DEEP SNOW CONDITIONS: Yesterday, it was waist to chest deep above 7,000 feet. Tree wells are huge. Don't get casual day syndrome. Make sure your skills match the conditions. It's the real deal out there. Be prepared.

The Mt Shasta Avalanche Center Silent Auction is LIVE! Check it out!

ROAD & RECREATION SITE STATUS: 

  • The Everitt Memorial Highway and Castle Lake road are CLOSED (Snowmobile access up Everitt Memorial Highway is not possible. Best access is Pilgrim Creek or Deer Mtn Sno-Parks)
  • Pilgrim Creek and Deer Mountain Snowmobile Park's are OPEN
  • Mt Shasta Ski Park - OPEN
  • Sand Flat Winter Trails - CLOSED
  • Nordic Center - Call 530-925-3494 for the latest update.

Regions covered