Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Human-triggered avalanches are possible on all but westerly aspects near and above treeline. Moderate winds transported lingering snow yesterday, further loading leeward-facing slopes. Continue your assessment mindset as moderate winds persist today with the addition of afternoon snow. While any avalanches would most likely be small, the potential for a large avalanche exists on isolated features. Safest locations are below treeline or wind-sheltered areas near treeline.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Despite a thin, widespread surface crust, snow was available for transport yesterday. Steady, moderate winds with strong gusts moved that snow around helping further load all but westerly aspects. Slopes facing E-SE-S are the most sensitive to trigger due to existing loading from December 30, 2022. Both a snowmobile and skier triggered wind slab were reported yesterday on SE aspects. Wind slabs are most likely found on terrain features with common characteristics: leeward facing slope, steep convex rolls, a smooth wind-deposited snow surface, or suddenly stiff snow. See an example of these characteristics in the Recent Observations section of the forecast.

    Multiple, obvious clues of wind slab avalanche danger are visible in this photo taken yesterday near the Old Ski Bowl:

    ✓ Previous avalanches (center right)

    ✓ Layered, wind-deposited snow (center, center left)

    ✓ Blowing snow along ridge tops (background)

    (1/1/2023) Photo: MSAC Forecasters

Avalanche Discussion

Happy New Year! Make your new year's resolution to be a safer backcountry partner. And what no better way to get started than by attending our FREE Avalanche Awareness Presentation! This will be held January 7th at 7:00pm at Deadwood Supply Co in Mt. Shasta City. It will be followed by a FREE Avalanche Rescue training the next morning at Bunny Flat Trailhead. More information can be found on the Mt. Shasta Avalanche Center Events Page.

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