Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago.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

Highlights

Recent snow and wind loading have made for dangerous avalanche conditions in steep terrain near and above treeline. You could trigger an avalanche large enough to bury you in wind-drifted snow, especially on leeward, E-N-W aspects. If you travel in the backcountry today, be aware of your surroundings, choose low-angle terrain, and watch for shooting cracks and collapsing.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2.5

    Recent snow and moderate westerly wind gusting strong have and will continue to form wind slabs one to two feet deep. It is possible to find areas of wind-drifted snow near and above treeline on leeward, W-NW-N-NE-E-SE aspects, especially near ridges and rock outcroppings. Wind-loaded terrain will be evident by drifts, pillows, and firmer surfaces. Watch for cracking and collapsing, as they are blatant indicators of instability in this problem. Using small, inconsequential test slopes similar to slopes you'll be riding is an excellent way to evaluate the snow before committing to more exposed avalanche terrain. 

    Storm Slabs: The forecast area received 14 inches of snow in the last 48 hours. Lingering storm slabs about one foot deep will be possible to trigger. Like wind slabs, they will display similar signs of instability (shooting cracks, collapsing, etc.) but you will find them to be more widespread and occurring in sheltered terrain, relatively unaffected by the wind. 

    (2/14/2024)

    Cracking in recent/wind-loaded snow

    Photo: Cory Beattie

Avalanche Discussion

The brief lull in the storm cycle may entice you to climb higher and step out into steeper terrain today, but do so with caution. Over the past two days, there have been several skier triggered soft slab avalanches fracturing 150 feet wide or more. You can mitigate your exposure to this problem by approaching wind-loaded terrain with caution, watching for obvious signs of instability, and choosing conservative terrain under 30°.

The recent snow is wet, heavy, and could prove hazardous for the "my knees ain't what they used to be" crowd. Below treeline riding conditions are difficult. Near treeline riding holds a slight improvement , but your best chance for finding lighter, drier snow will be in above treeline terrain on Mount Shasta. 

Regions covered