Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago.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 wind will blow from the west, loading easterly aspects near and above treeline. Southern aspects in alpine terrain are best to heed with caution as they continue to experience cross loading. Recently loaded western aspects should be assessed thoroughly. Specific areas, such as steep slopes below ridgelines and convex roll-overs, are areas where wind drifts will be most sensitive. It is possible these drifts will fail under the weight of a single rider. Watch for blowing snow, fresh wind lips and scoured surfaces to help determine wind direction. Pillow like snow appearances with a hollow feel and sound indicate areas of wind drifted snow and are worth avoiding.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Over the last 24 hours wind blowing from the east at strong speeds with extreme gusts has drifted snow onto westerly and southerly slopes. These wind loaded slopes will be most pronounced in above treeline terrain. Nevertheless, wind exposed areas near treeline should not be ruled out and assessed for wind loading. 

    Today winds have shifted back to a westerly direction and with added precipitation in store, except east aspects to experience wind loading, growing in concern during the second half of the day. Southern aspects will continue to be cross loaded and should be granted extra caution and thorough assessment in the upper elevations.

    (3/22/2023)

    A due east wind direction over the last 24 hrs with an average speed of 15 mph and a max gust of 67 mph 

    Photo: E.Falconer

Avalanche Discussion

Sub-regional differences have created some uncertainty regarding the forecast. With variable snowfall amounts observed between the westerly mountains and Mount Shasta, it's likely this problem is not representative throughout the entire forecast zone. We encourage riders to remain vigilant and continue to exercise caution when exploring the backcountry. 

Road/Recreation Status:

  • Everitt Memorial Highway is CLOSED
  • Castle Lake road is CLOSED
  • Pilgrim Creek Snowmobile Park - OPEN
  • Deer Mountain Snowmobile Park - OPEN
  • MS Ski Park/Nordic Center - OPEN

Regions covered