Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Heightened avalanche conditions exist as a fresh pulse of precipitation brings 6–10 inches of snow, and strong-extreme winds to the forecast area. Wind slab instabilities will increase through the day, and human-triggered avalanches are possible. Assess leeward avalanche terrain (W-NW-N-NE-E) with caution, looking for signs of instability such as shooting cracks, collapsing test slopes, and visibly wind-loaded slopes.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Today's new round of precipitation is accompanied by strong-extreme winds out of the southwest. Areas as low as 5,000 feet could see gusts into the extreme category (>38 MPH). While extreme winds often blow the snow back into the atmosphere (sublimation), many areas across the forecast area will see more reasonable winds, loading snow onto leeward aspects. Expect to find wind slab development on W-NW-N-NE-E aspects. These stronger winds could result in unusual loading patterns, depositing wind-drifted snow lower on slopes than expected, and concentrating around terrain features like convexities, and rock outcrops. Slabs could be up to 3 feet deep, and be reactive to skis. This afternoon during peak storm intensity, wind slabs could be quite touchy, running easily on the surface crust of the old snow. If triggered, these avalanches have the potential to bury and/or kill you. Avoid this problem by assessing leeward avalanche terrain with caution, or not traveling in the terrain altogether.

Avalanche Discussion

A NWS Winter Storm Warning is in place until 5pm today. The bulk of the precipitation will fall between 11am and 5pm, with increased intensity at higher elevations. Around 6–10 inches is expected by today's end. Strong winds will surely impact snow surfaces and visibility near and above treeline. If you're hoping to get out today, the best bet will be to stay below treeline in sheltered terrain. Another round of precipitation (with similar totals) is expected tomorrow night. Models are in agreement of a high-pressure ridge building over the forecast area by mid-week, sending full-on spring like conditions. Get the soft snow while you can!

Speaking of spring, our snowpack is set up well for an excellent spring skiing season. Most of our weather stations are reporting over 130 inches of consolidated snow on the ground, and the upper reaches of Mount Shasta are looking extra filled in. As we begin thinking of those upper mountain ski objectives, it's about time to inspect the necessary equipment. Sharpen those tools and crampons, beef up that first aid kit, reload your sunscreen, and inspect your helmet for any critical damage. 

The Everitt Memorial Highway is OPEN. Castle Lake road is still closed for the time being.

Regions covered