Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago.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

Highlights

Today is the beginning of a progressive pattern of weather, with storms rolling through every two days or so for the foreseeable future.  Precipitation has started early this morning and southerly wind has increased. A few inches of new snow paired with south wind will likely whip up a recipe for wind slabs near and above treeline today. Slabs probably won't be very large, but none-the-less, we've bumped the avalanche danger up to moderate for the day. Human triggered wind slabs are possible. If two weeks of high pressure and low danger have dulled your senses, it's time to shake it off, pay attention and recognize red flags as you travel through the backcountry. Continue to be cautious of smooth, slick, icy surfaces. A slide-for-life in steep terrain is most definitely possible.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    A small storm will impact the mountains today, bringing a few inches of snow paired with strong south wind. Leeward slopes NW-N-NE facing and cross loaded W and E aspects will be most suspect. Wind slabs will be small to medium-sized, and may be sensitive to trigger. Look for this problem below ridges, bowls and gully features. Identify areas of concern and utilize non-avalanche terrain if signs of instability are present.

Avalanche Discussion

We are moving back into more winter-like weather, thank the Great Spirit! I was starting to get painful flashbacks of the two-month dry spell of yesteryear. The avalanche danger will ebb and flow with storms passing through. Mount Shasta, near and above treeline, is a windy place. Even though it may not be snowing, pay attention to the wind, which way it's blowing and where the snow is going. Wind slabs can form on clear, blue sky days. If you are out and about and see any signs of recent avalanches or red flags, let us know!

Events this weekend, 2/4 and 2/5:

  • Saturday, Avalanche Awareness @ Deadwood Supply Co. - 7pm
  • Sunday, Sunday, Sunday - Companion Rescue @ Bunny Flat - 9am

Regions covered