Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

The primary avalanche concern is the presence of new wind slabs on leeward north and east slopes above the treeline. Take note of where blowing snow is accumulating, be alert for signs of instability such as cracking or collapsing, and be cautious while traveling in the backcountry today as surface conditions will be variable.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Yesterday, WSW wind blew at moderate to strong speeds. Small wind slabs may have developed on leeward north and east aspects above the treeline. With a brief and light refresh in the last 24 hours, there are small amounts of snow available for transport. Incoming additional accumulations tonight will give us moderate amounts of snow available for transport. Above treeline is the most likely place for riders to encounter developing drifts. Wind deposits form beneath ridgelines, rock outcroppings, and on convex rollovers. Keep these locations in mind and watch for signs of instability and pillowy, lens-like snow surfaces that are indicators of wind loaded slopes. 

    (1/10/2024)

    Wind transport and active snowfall rapidly accumulating on the leeward (left) side of the ridge

    Photo: Eric Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

For the next 24 hours, heightened avalanche conditions will exist above treeline on the most wind loaded slopes, N-NE-E aspects. The brunt of the weather for the forecast period will arrive this evening. If you're headed out for an overnighter, watch for areas accumulating wind-blown snow and pack plenty of warm layers. Yesterday, Eric and I found the pre-storm snow surface to be unfrozen and soft up to 8,200 feet. Above 8,200 feet, we observed a two to three centimeter thick melt-freeze crust. With last night's temperatures dipping well below freezing, it is likely you will now find this surface crust at lower elevations below treeline.

Regions covered