Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago.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

Avalanche conditions are generally safe, but there are a few hazards to consider. Use caution on steep, wind loaded slopes above treeline. You may find wind-drifted slabs of snow big enough to take you for a ride on smooth, slick surfaces. Small slides that knock you over and take one for a ride in extreme terrain can be dangerous. For climbers, we've observed patches of snow with an icy glaze at mid mountain levels. Surfaces like this could be more widespread on the upper mountain. Self-arrest is near impossible in some areas.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1–1.5

    Wind drifted snow often drives the avalanche danger in our deep snowpack. Near and above treeline, not much loose snow remains available for wind transport, and we've observed mostly scoured terrain from the howling north winds. All told, don't discount the chance of an isolated wind slab in steep, extreme terrain. It's unlikely any avalanche will be large enough to fully bury you, but perhaps large enough to take you for a ride. Wind has blown mostly out of the northwest, with a few stints out of the south. 

Avalanche Discussion

If you find yourself wanting to climb high into the alpine, make sure you have the proper equipment (ice axe, crampons, helmet) and the proper skills (self-arrest, climbing technique, navigation, first aid) to do so. Despite being 15 minutes off Interstate 5, climbing Mount Shasta is no joke in the winter, and can kill you. Even though the sky might be clear, wind is a huge factor. Rescue is not always quick and easy. Consider your actions, be honest with your skills, have a plan but be flexible if conditions are different from expected, or if you're just not feeling it!   

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