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Out of date — this forecast expired 7 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Small human-triggered avalanches are possible in wind-drifted areas. Evaluate wind loaded features for signs of instability if traveling near and above treeline. Cold temperatures will keep underlying surfaces firm. Come equipped to arrest a fall if traveling on steep slopes in the alpine.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Several inches of new snow overnight combined with moderate to strong SW through NW winds above treeline probably formed small wind slabs. They may also have formed near treeline although speeds were lower at Gray Butte. Light W to NW winds continue today and may lead to additional wind loading. Speeds may be a bit stronger than forecast.

    Watch for signs of blowing snow and where it is going. Slabs that formed near treeline may be more sensitive to triggering on NE through N through NW aspects where they were deposited over near surface facets capped by a thin crust or none at all. Wind slabs commonly form below leeward ridgelines, around rock outcroppings, and in gully features and may appear lens, pillow, or dune-shaped. Evaluate slopes for signs instability before committing to steep terrain. If you see signs of unstable snow like recent avalanches, cracking, or blocking, consider moving to lower angle slopes, more sheltered terrain, or around the drifted area. In extreme terrain and with firm bed surfaces, even small avalanches can have serious consequences. 

Avalanche Discussion

Last night, the Old Ski bowl received several inches of snow, marking the first precipitation in over two weeks! Higher elevations may have received a couple additional inches while lower elevations received less. Firm surfaces are still widespread beneath this welcome refresh. Come equipped to self-arrest a fall if travelling on steep slopes. In general, underlying surfaces remain highly variable across the zone, encompassing a mix of supportable and breakable crusts, wind textured snow, and dry, weak snow.  

Regions covered