Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago.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

Highlights

Wind loading is happening. Northwest winds will continue to drift snow onto east, south, and west aspects near and above treeline. Steep wind exposed terrain below ridgelines, cliff bands, and convex pockets are where riders will likely encounter this problem. Thorough snowpack assessment should be made before entering avalanche terrain and conservative decision-making and cautious route finding is warranted.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Over the last 24 hrs winds have governed a northwest direction blowing at moderate speeds with extreme gusts near ridge tops. Fresh snow available for transport will continue to fuel the wind slab problem today. The potential for large wind slabs on leeward east and south aspects that have received large amounts of drifted snow is a paramount concern. Terrain features that collect snow, like deep chutes, gullies, and rock outcroppings are areas to stay extra cautions of. Cold temperatures will delay the settlement of snowpack in shady areas and could host more reactive drifts. Smooth snow pilled up behind or below a terrain feature and pillow shaped slope characteristic are both signs of wind drifted snow.  Be on the lookout for avalanche activity and signs of instability. 

  • Loose Wet

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

    With the sun expected to make an appearance today and valley temperatures reaching well above freezing levels, it's reasonable to expect wet-loose activity on southerly slopes. Monitor solar aspects for dampening snow and weakening snow surfaces. Roller balls and point releases near trees and cliffs will be good indicators of how this problem is developing. If in need, seek shady terrain. 

Avalanche Discussion

As our weather has taught us before, never underestimate a north wind. As wind activity looks to mellow out today, a wake of wind drifted snow remains a consequential threat. Regional differences may present different snow totals or snowpack structures but the wind activity has remained the same throughout.On the bright side, this hazard can be easily mitigated. If going into the backcountry, choose to venture into terrain below 30 degrees, or areas not susceptible to wind loading. If going into avalanche terrain, take the time to assess your route and descent carefully.

  • Everitt Memorial Highway is CLOSED
  • Castle Lake road is CLOSED
  • Pilgrim Creek Snowmobile Park - OPEN
  • Deer Mountain Snowmobile Park - OPEN
  • MS Ski Park/Nordic Center - OPEN

Regions covered