Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

New and wind transported snow is still stabilizing. Today, you could trigger an avalanche on wind-loaded slopes above the treeline. Approach ridges and gullies with caution, specifically on leeward, southeast and east aspects.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Though new snowfall is tapering off, moderate wind shifting from southwest to northwest has left us with a wind slab problem in above treeline terrain today. You could trigger an avalanche large enough to bury a person on steep, wind loaded slopes. The highest potential for encountering a wind slab is on southeast and east aspects near ridgelines, gullies, and other convexities that capture blowing snow. With that being said, the recent change in wind direction leaves the potential to find this problem on NW, N, and NE aspects as well.

    This problem is on the mend, but cornices are not stable and wind slabs are still sensitive to the weight of a rider. With warmer temperatures and a break from precipitation, the snowpack can now heal and adjust to the new load. In the meantime, continue to give cornices and any slope that appears loaded with deeper snow than surrounding areas a wide berth and, as always, be on the lookout for shooting cracks and listen for collapsing. 

    (1/4/2025)

    Intentionally triggered wind slab near the top of Gerald's Bowl (lower Green Butte). East aspect near 8,200 feet

    Photo: Mount Shasta Avalanche Center

Avalanche Discussion

The wind slab avalanche problem is still active above the treeline on Mount Shasta. Yesterday, test slopes on Green Butte, near and within Sun Bowl, showed that these slabs are still sensitive to the weight of a rider. That, and a recent natural avalanche, confirmed the problem's prevalence. Slabs ranged in depth from 6 inches at the thinnest to nearly two feet at the deepest. With Sun Bowl being one of our most popular zones, it can be easy for folks to fall into the familiarity heuristic trap and mistakenly deem themselves as safe. Heuristic traps are shortcuts in decision making that are a common factor leading up to avalanche accidents. Follow this link to learn more about heuristic traps and what you can do to counteract these pitfalls.

Recent observations and avalanche activity tell us that recreationalists should express caution on and near wind loaded, steep slopes, especially above treeline. As precipitation exits the region, this wind slab problem will begin to heal over the coming days. Until then, keep your wits about you and play it safe, folks. 

Regions covered