Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Wind drifted snow may exist in steep alpine terrain on leeward slopes. Otherwise, a soggy snowpack will make encountering a wind slab unlikely today. Remain vigilant for both avalanche danger and early season hazards.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Uncertainty remains for snow totals and wind effected terrain at the upper elevations, (9,000 feet and above). If traveling above treeline, do so with caution. Look for wind effected surfaces and monitor for instabilities within the snowpack, like large shooting cracks and recent avalanches. Up high, winds have been stronger blowing from the south and southeast, with snow as the favoring precipitation type. With yesterday's warming temperatures, it's possible, dryer snow has been buried beneath heavier snow. Feel for firm snow above soft snow to gain an idea of the snowpack structure.      

    Yesterday, rain was observed falling up to 8,500 feet. Snow levels may have lowered overnight, nevertheless, the added moisture has decreased the likelihood of wind slab development near and below treeline. 

    (12/19/2023)

    Rain runnels at 7,400 feet 

    Photo: Eric Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

With freshly moistened snow surfaces, it's reasonable to think about a wet-loose snow problem. While not a problem at this time, it's something to have on the radar if traveling in steep terrain where snow surfaces are wet and penetrable.

Another consideration is surface crusts. These are likely to form, if they haven't already, and will add to the dynamic nature of the snowpack. Be prepared for challenging travel conditions. Tread lightly, and remember, “Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.”

Learn more about what's happening on Mount Shasta from an observation at the Old Ski Bowl yesterday. View it HERE.

If you see anything interesting while out traveling, please let us know or submit an observation. We'd love to hear from you. Anything helps, and a little goes a long way.

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