Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

A foot or more of new snow will fall in the next 24 hours, with strong to extreme southwest winds near and above treeline. Peak snowfall intensities should be expected this morning. Avalanche danger will rise through the day. Human triggered, and natural avalanches are possible above treeline. Hazard will remain moderate below treeline. Best bet is to stay below treeline, and assess any leeward aspect slopes for wind loading. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    As winds and new snow ramp up again today and tonight, expect this problem to rise significantly. Wind slabs should be expected on northerly aspects, with cross loading on west and easterly aspects. The strong winds could deposit snow lower on terrain features than normal. When assessing slopes for wind loading, consider mid-slope conditions as well as near ridgeline. These avalanches could be large, and can bury you. Best bet is to stay off of any wind loaded slope above treeline. 

  • Storm Slabs

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

    With 10 or more inches expected near treeline today, this problem must be considered. Storm slabs are most prominent and easy to trigger during or right after peak storm intensities. These storm slabs could be reactive to touchy with skis. With the expected strong southwest winds, you'll likely only find this problem in wind sheltered areas.

Avalanche Discussion

Today is all about terrain choice. Near and above treeline, expect conditions to be windy, and cold with poor visibility. Below treeline, however, may be far more pleasant with a lower avalanche danger. Maintain a healthy suspicion of aspects on the north half of the compass, specifically slopes that have seen more wind deposited snow. If in doubt, keep it below 30 degrees. 

Road/Recreation Status:

  • Everitt Memorial Highway is CLOSED. The gate is closed this morning. 
  • Castle Lake road is CLOSED

Regions covered