Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago.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

Highlights

Exercise caution around wind-loaded slopes near and above treeline, and on any aspect getting sunshine. The danger of triggering small avalanches is highest in areas with wind-drifted snow and in extreme terrain that holds slopes steeper than 30° and rock outcroppings. Watch out for hollow sounding slabs, roller balls, and falling rime ice.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

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

    Continued sunshine today and even warmer temperatures than yesterday will increase the possibility for natural and human triggered wet loose avalanches. Natural triggers could occur by sun induced melt or by falling rime ice setting the warming snow surface free to run downslope. Loose avalanches release at a single point and fan out as they travel down slope. While these avalanches are typically shallow, they could knock you off of your sled or skis, carrying you into trees or over cliffs. Observe for early indicators of snow surface warming and instability such as melting snow, roller balls, and snow sticking to your skins. Travel with caution around steep areas above terrain traps, especially those slopes receiving sunshine.

    (1/4/2024)

    Small wet loose avalanches on the east side of Green Butte

    Photo: Cory Beattie

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Mount Shasta and the entire forecast area near and above treeline have experienced strong to extreme N and NE wind for the past 72 hours. At wind speeds this high, much of the snow being swept up into the dry atmosphere is melting, or sublimating, in the sunshine. With that being said, there is still a chance that some of this snow is accumulating in isolated locations. You may find a wind slab in protected areas of extreme terrain or further downslope than typical avalanche start zones. Watch for accumulations of drifting snow and cracking or collapsing. 

Avalanche Discussion

 This first significant warm-up of the year will bring clear skies and elevated freezing levels up to 10,000 feet. Cornices are nearing their critical mass for the season and as this weather trend continues, these large ridgetop drifts will weaken and may naturally fall onto a slope that could trigger an avalanche. Also, these high temperatures and sunshine will allow for the release of rime ice from rocky areas like the Red Banks or the Trinity Chutes. Be aware of what's above you and consider wearing a helmet while you ascend as these rime ice blocks can be quite large and harmful. 

The road to Castle Lake is closed. The Siskiyou County road department is down to one blower but will be working on clearing the road next week.

Regions covered