Avalanche Advisory for 2016-01-25 06:38:28

All snow depth sensors in the forecast area reported calm winds and about 2 inches of new snow from the lingering snow showers yesterday. Very calm winds allowed the new snow to evenly distribute and created darn good riding conditions in multiple areas. We have not observed or heard of any signs of instability over the forecast area in the last few days. The snowpack continued to settle about 1 inch yesterday and bonding between snowpack layers is improving.

Previous wind loading from this past weeks storms is still evident. Small to large cornices have formed on ridgelines from SW-W-NW winds. And, as (almost) always, wind slabs are still present too. A local observer yesterday (1.24.16) noted wind slabs are soft and bonding well to the old snow surface at 8,800 feet on Mt Shasta, west/southwest aspect, 33 degree slope.  At this same location, extended column tests resulted in moderate failures with no propagation (ECTN13-Q3) and poor shear quality at 35cm down in snowpack on the old snow surface. No facets were observed at interfaces. 

Storm slab concerns are diminishing and were not observed on Mt Shasta but could still be present at other locations below treeline in the forecast area. While one may stumble upon a small to medium sized storm slab today, it's unlikely to trigger. If one does find a storm slab, protected steeper (>37 degrees) slopes near treeline on shady northerly aspects will be the best place for said avalanche problem. 

Lingering pockets of instability for wind loaded topography such as roll overs/convexities, steep chutes, and complex terrain with rock outcroppings will represent the best places for triggering a wind slab and should be todays primary concern. Near and above treeline, keep your peepers open for overhanging cornices on wind affected ridgelines and existing wind slabs which could be triggered when on slopes steeper than 37 degrees. Be able to observe signs of wind such as cornice formations, wind pillows and snow surface texture.

With the sun coming out today in full force, some roller balls and perhaps a point release or two are possible on southerly slopes during the warmest time of the day, usually mid afternoon. While any heat related, loose-snow point release avalanches are not a huge threat, they can still sweep you off your feet into trees, over a cliff, etc.

Cornice off a ridgeline on Mt Shasta, near treeline. This ridgeline runs north/south with the cornice facing east. Surfs up - Head high and glassy! [Photo: E.R.]
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LOCAL AREA ROAD, NORDIC and SNOWMOBILE PARK STATUS:

The Sand Flat cross country ski trails are in great shape and ready for your cross country skis or snow shoes. These are backcountry trails marked with blue diamonds on trees. Trails are not groomed.  Snow shoers, please blaze a parallel trail to cross country skiers staying out of the skin track. These trails can be accessed via the Everett Memorial Highway. Thank you, and enjoy!

The Mt Shasta Nordic Center is open! These beautiful, groomed trails can be accessed via the Ski Park Highway. http://www.mtshastanordic.org

The Pilgrim Creek & Deer Mountain Snowmobile Parks are open! Trails are being groomed currently. Head to our "Education" tab on our website and find the snowmobile section for trail information, grooming status and other sledder resources!

The Castle Lake road is plowed to the Vista Point. The Everett Memorial Highway is plowed to Bunny Flat.

The Five Red Flags of Avalanche Danger any time of year include:  1) Recent/current avalanche activity  2) Whumphing sounds or shooting cracks  3) Recent/current heavy snowfall  4) Strong winds transporting snow  5) Rapid warming or rain on snow.