Mount Shasta
Pericolo valanghe
In sintesi
Avalanches will remain unlikely today. Half an inch of new snow will create dust-on-crust conditions near and above treeline. Expect variable snow surfaces, particularly light wind drifts on top of very firm old snow. Cloud cover will continue through the day with moderate to strong southerly winds.
Avalanche Discussion
Up to a half-inch of fresh snow has fallen at treeline overnight. It would be a stretch to call it a Christmas miracle, but we will take it! This will likely result in dust-on-crust conditions across most terrain. Just below the overnight snow is a firm, icy glaze that has developed on all but the most shaded terrain. Such a firm bed surface has made skiing and travel quite difficult, you may be better off waiting till midday for the warmth to soften things up a bit. Anticipate temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees at the 7,000-foot level, potentially softening the surface snow around midday. However, persistent moderate-strong southerly winds may hinder the warming process.
Speaking of wind, this new snow has likely already been pushed around, forming pockets and drifts in leeward (easterly) aspects. Up high on Mount Shasta, it's possible there are slightly larger drifts and even very small wind slabs in isolated terrain. Not much to worry about, but it should be considered if venturing above 10,000 feet.
Travel with caution out there. Snow conditions could be extremely variable today. If the surface doesn't soften, the skiing and riding could be quite treacherous. Below treeline, snow depth is still very thin, around six to eighteen inches. Near treeline, 2–4 feet of snow has created a solid, supportable base.
Bunny Flat was absolutely packed yesterday with skiers, sledders, children, goldendoodles, and australian shepherds. Today will likely be no different, so let's all take it nice and slow up there. Watch out for the little ones and furry friends as you pull in and out of the parking lot. Here are some reminders for accessing Bunny Flat:
- Motorized users please park below the restrooms, large toy haulers are discouraged
- Do not park in front of the snowmobile access ramp, there will be cones placed in front
- Keep the middle of the parking lot clear to allow adequate turnaround
- Let's all keep the mountain clean, take care of your trash