Mount Shasta

Avalanches remain unlikely, but not impossible. Stay alert for small, isolated pockets of unstable wind-drifted snow on the upper slopes of Mount Shasta. Other alpine hazards include icefall, variable snow surfaces, and slide-for-life conditions. If climbing, a full mountaineering kit is essential: 12-point crampons, an ice axe, and a helmet. Solid self-arrest skills are critical. 

Yesterday and overnight, strong to extreme northeast winds blew snow across upper elevation ridgelines on Mount Shasta, including near the Red Banks, Sargents Ridge, and Green Butte Ridge. If traveling in the alpine, remain vigilant for isolated pockets of wind-drifted snow in extreme terrain, where even small avalanches can have serious consequences. Be prepared to change your route or objective if you observe signs of unstable snow, such as cracking in wind-drifted areas and warming-related instabilities like rollerballs. 

Icefall and rockfall are additional hazards this weekend. Rime ice plasters the rocks of the upper mountain. This ice could shed at any time - minimize your exposure beneath rime-covered features. Climbers: winter conditions significantly increase the level of risk. A full mountaineering kit is essential: 12-point crampons (NOT microspikes), ice axe, and helmet, and the skills to use them proficiently. Be prepared for firm, slide-for-life conditions. 

Since daily forecasts began on December 1st, the season has been defined by two prolonged dry and warm periods and two impressive storm cycles. Following a quiet early December, the tides abruptly turned mid-month. From December 16th through the 26th, the Christmas Storm delivered about 12 inches of snow water equivalent (SWE) and 70 inches of snow at the Old Ski Bowl on Mount Shasta (7,600 feet). This storm cycle concluded with a notable avalanche cycle. After a short reprieve, the New Year’s Storm arrived with a bang: 8 inches of SWE and 35 inches of snow from December 31st through January 7th. Observers reported two avalanches that most likely released near the end of the active period. 

Now, we are right back where we started in early December with dry weather and unseasonable warmth, albeit with more snow on the ground. Mount Shasta holds the deepest snowpack - about six feet near treeline. Generally high snow levels this season have left shallower depths across lower elevations of the forecast area, including in the Eddy Mountains, Castle Lake, and on the east side of Mount Shasta. Snow surfaces consist of a highly variable and sometimes hazardous mix of crusts (often breakable), wet and sticky snow, dry snow, wind-affected snow, and icy patches on exposed features. Ski and ride with caution. Some decent snow can be sleuthed out. 

If you get out in the backcountry this weekend, please consider posting an observation! We'd love to hear from you.