Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Today, the odds of triggering an avalanche are low. Anticipate variable snow conditions with the potential for difficult travel. Remain alert for thin snow coverage and decreased visibility at higher elevations. 

Avalanche Discussion

A mostly homogeneous snowpack exists on Mount Shasta. Warm temperatures and high amounts of humidity have moistened much of the existing snowpack. Today will be no exception. At 10,000 feet, temperatures will sit near freezing levels, with lower elevations climbing into the lower 40s. As the day progresses, snow surfaces will continue to break down and soften. Winds may inhibit some surfaces from softening, particularly in the alpine. Although the snowpack is supportable, variable surfaces can impair travel and buried objects still exist and can be found if not careful. Below treeline, snow depths are still very thin, around six to eighteen inches. Near treeline, 2–4 feet of snow is present. 

Anyone ascending into the alpine should be prepared for increased wind speeds, poor visibility, and whiteout conditions. Clouds can envelop Mount Shasta in the blink of an eye. Monitor for clouds building overhead, and don't keep ascending into a whiteout. 

The new year is almost upon us and we haven't recorded a single avalanche — yet! The last round of precipitation that fell over December 18th–19th has allowed access to more terrain and begun to fill in avalanche start zones near and above treeline. With the “relatively” shallow snowpack that is present, the rocks and bushes anchoring these slopes are getting buried. With snow on the way and avalanche terrain prepped, it's important to be observant. Paying attention to today's snow surfaces will help to better understand tomorrow's avalanche problem.  

Thus far, Bunny Flat is the only snow recreation access point. Please follow these simple protocols to help keep access functional for all.     

  • Motorized users, please park below the restrooms, large toy haulers are discouraged
  • Do not park in front of the snowmobile access ramp, there will be cones placed in front
  • Keep the middle of the parking lot clear to allow adequate turnaround
  • Lets all keep the mountain clean, take care of your trash

Regions covered