Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
4 · High
Below
4 · High
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Highlights

A very active weather pattern across the Pacific Ocean will continue to push energetic and fast-moving low pressure systems toward the West Coast for at least the next several days. Under strong southerly flow, Mount Shasta will endure the brunt of these storms, with heavy precipitation and strong winds. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended, especially above 7,000 feet.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    1–3

    Large, thick wind slabs will continue to build near and above treeline on many aspects. Moderate to strong wind blowing out of the SE-S-SW will sustain today. Over the past three days, the wind has blow primarily out of the S-SE and W-NW. Some slabs could form below treeline in areas with intense wind. Wind slab avalanches could be very large and release naturally. Cornices above wind loaded slopes could collapse and cause wind slabs to fail. These wind slab avalanches may run long distances. Travel in or below windy avalanche terrain is not recommended today.

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    1–3

    Thick, heavy, dense storm slabs rest on a crust/weak layer of snow. Another 7–13 inches of snow is in the forecast today, and 14–20 inches tonight. Snow levels will linger near 4,400 feet. Storm slabs could fail within new snow or the weak layer now buried ~2.5 feet deep. This problem can be expected on all aspects below and near treeline, and primarily above 6,000 feet. Reconsider terrain you may typically think of as "safe". Travel in and below avalanche terrain is not recommended. 

Avalanche Discussion

Extreme caution is advised if you head into the backcountry today. Despite poor visibility and difficult access, our observations indicate a sensitive snowpack, with ample amounts of additional snow on deck. Avalanches that can kill you are becoming more and more likely in near and above treeline terrain. Monitor changing conditions, give yourself wide safety margins and stick to low angle slopes.

FREE Upcoming Events: KBYG Avalanche Awareness Presentation, Saturday, January 7th at 7:00pm at Deadwood Supply Co in Mt. Shasta City. On Sunday, January 8th, Avalanche Rescue Clinic, 9am, location TBA based on weather conditions and local trailhead access.

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