Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year.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

Generally safe avalanche conditions exist. Lingering pockets of wind drifted snow in steep terrain is always a hazard to look for on Mount Shasta.  Variable, funky snow surfaces remain. We're back in the saddle again -- a storm builds tonight, and delivers tomorrow. Expect increasing avalanche danger!

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Pockets of wind drifted snow may linger. While unlikely, one may be able to trigger a small slide and take a ride. If you find hard or hollow feeling snow in a couloir or below a ridge, and are in steep terrain, use caution. Avoiding wind drifted slopes is always a good idea to help stay safe. It's been breezy on Mount Shasta. Over the past three days, wind has blow predominantly out of the west, averaging 5-10 mi/hr with gusts to 36 mi/hr. 

    (2/20/2025)

    Wind slab over soft snow

    Photo: Samuel Clairmont

Avalanche Discussion

A solid storm is set to arrive tonight and continue into tomorrow, bringing fresh snow to a variety of surface conditions. Overall, the snowpack is well-prepared to handle the new load. However, in some areas, we've observed soft, sugary snow beneath firm wind slabs. This setup is not uniformly distributed, but it’s something to be aware of. We’ll continue to monitor conditions in the coming days.  

With the sun now higher in the sky, its impact on fresh snowfall can be significant—an important factor to keep in mind during these March storms. Spring weather can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before heading out and stay aware of changing conditions throughout the day.  

Climbing season is fast approaching, and your safety is one of our top priorities. We’ll never discourage a grand adventure, but we do encourage proper preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Feel free to give us a call—we’re happy to help with trip planning!

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

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