Mount Shasta

Avalanche danger remains low. Cold temperatures and strong winds will keep surfaces firm today. Anticipate reduced visibility at high elevations on Mount Shasta if cloud levels drop. Maintain situational awareness for changing weather and be prepared to arrest a fall if traveling on steep snow-covered slopes. 

Firm surfaces could result in an uncontrollable slide-for-life today as strong winds and cool temperatures keep things from softening. Approaching weather may lower cloud ceilings, which would impact visibility in areas above treeline on Mount Shasta. About an inch to upwards of 5 inches of snow is expected to fall later this afternoon into the night. While nothing to write home about, it is a welcome change after over two weeks of drought. Any increase in avalanche danger will be more a concern for tomorrow's forecast. However, if it comes earlier than expected, watch for blowing snow in areas that may be actively loading. 

With this shift in weather, climbing is not recommended. Being caught in a whiteout on the upper mountain is a recipe for becoming disoriented and getting off route. For any recreators above treeline, be flexible for changing conditions. Come equipped to self-arrest a fall if travelling on steep slopes. Surface conditions remain highly variable across the zone, encompassing a mix of supportable and breakable crusts, wind textured snow, and dry surface snow in isolated areas.