Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired last year.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

Highlights

Avalanche hazard is declining, but present. You could trigger a large avalanche on wind loaded aspects near and above the treeline. Small wet loose avalanches are possible on all slopes receiving sun. Pay attention to wind-affected snow and roller balls as signs of instability. Even small avalanches may carry you over cliffs, through trees, or into other dangerous terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    New snow and moderate northwest wind has created a wind slab problem on leeward aspects near and above the treeline. You will most likely find them on northeast, east and southeast aspects, though they may be on north, south, and southwest aspects, too. It is unlikely that we'll see any natural wind slab avalanches today, but you could still trigger one with your sled, board, or skis. The wind works in weird ways and may be loading snow into areas not expected. Inspect all steep slopes for wind-drifted snow and be on the lookout for shooting cracks, especially near cliffs and gullies.

    The majority of avalanches are expected to be small, not enough to bury you, but enough to sweep you off your feet into hazardous terrain. With that being said, there is still a possibility of triggering a large avalanche that could bury you.

  • Loose Wet

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

    Yesterday, forecasters watched as morning dry snow instabilities rapidly transitioned to wet loose instabilities by the afternoon. These wet loose instabilities will continue to be on the rise today as mountain temperatures climb into the lower 40s and clear skies allow the sun to shine down in earnest.

    A wet loose avalanche would be small today but could knock you down and carry you through hazardous terrain. Manage this problem by watching for roller balls and avoiding steep, south-facing slopes during the heat of the day. 

Avalanche Discussion

Following a few days of spring-like conditions perfect for corn skiing and hero sledding, yesterday's weather brought us back to winter. With up to 10 inches of new snow above the treeline, cold overnight temperatures, and moderate northwest wind, wind slabs are still lurking out there.

Today, that California sun will shine down once again and mountain temperatures will climb into the upper 40s. This brings the return of the wet loose avalanche problem. Get out to experience those south-facing steep slopes before the heat of the day takes its toll. Remaining snow available for wind transport will be on the decline as bonding and healing occur at the new/old snow interface.

Regions covered