Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago.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

Overall avalanche danger remains low, but 1-4 inches of new snow may provide enough to form small wind slabs in isolated areas as winds pick up today. Thin, loose snow in steep terrain could produce sloughs as well. There are plenty of visible and hidden obstacles in the new snow.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Our coverage area has received 1-4 inches of new snow during Monday and Tuesday's storm, with Mount Shasta receiving the most, but even there amounts vary. Even though I think overall avalanche danger is low,  it is worth highlighting wind slabs as a potential problem in isolated areas, particuarly as winds pick up today. There is enough snow out there to produce small wind slabs. Steep terrain will not be ideal for sliding on, but if you are intent on checking it out, look for drifting snow and stomp around on it. Do you see propagating cracks and blocking snow? Wind slabs may lurk nearby and they will not be well bonded to the old snowpack.

Avalanche Discussion

Light new snow sits atop an icy snowpack and skiing this will not be pleasant in steep terrain. But if you are intent on doing so, know that small sloughs will be possible. Sloughs are not likely to bury someone, but could sweep you off your feet.

Climbers should expect icy, firm snow surfaces below the light new snow and cold wind chills. Don't skimp on warm clothing if venturing out in the next few days.

Regions covered