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Location Name: 
Rainbow Mountain, NE of Ash Creek Butte
Region: 
East of Mt Shasta
Date and time of observation: 
10:00pm
Observation made by: 
Professional Observer

Location Map

Snowpack Observations

Details

Observations during a tour from Pilgrim Creek Snowmobile Park to Rainbow Mountain, northeast of Ash Creek Butte:

  • Snowpack configuration and snow depths similar to Mount Shasta area.
  • Height of storm snow (HST) = 50 cm, height of snow (HS) = 150-200 cm.
  • Ski cuts produced small dry loose avalanches/sloughing in steep north facing terrain (ran slowly but far down slope, not large enough to knock a skier off their feet)
  • Small cornices and windlips at ridgetop
  • No evidence of wind slabs
  • Right side up storm snow and good snowpack structure overall
  • Unreactive results from hand tests and shovel tilt tests
  • Roller balls and pinwheels on steep south facing slopes below treeline
  • Column test results: CT22 non-planar break (BRK) ↓ 30 cm, CT 28 resistant planar (RP) ↓ 75 cm, ECTX x2.
  • Good riding conditions on groomed and ungroomed snowmobile trails

Weather Observations

Statistics

  • EXPIRED ON March 19, 2018 @ 6:25 am
    Published on March 18, 2018 @ 6:25 am
  • Issued by Andrew Kiefer - Mt Shasta Avalanche Center

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
Location Name: 
Powder Bowl
Region: 
Mt. Shasta
Date and time of observation: 
8:30pm
Observation made by: 
Forecaster
Red Flags:
loading

Location Map

Snowpack Observations

Details

  • Height of storm total since 03/13: 60cm above 7000ft
  • No avalanches or signs of instability
  • The new snow is right-side-up and well bonded to itself and the old snow surface
  • Minor wind loading and small wind lips observed above treeline on S-SE-E aspects
  • No wind slabs observed
  • Roller balls on steep south aspects below treeline in the afternoon
  • Dry snow surfaces above 7500ft with 20cm of ski penetration
  • Height of snow ranged from 120-200cm between 7000-9200ft
  • Ski quality was good. Brief periods of sun caused snow surfaces to become moist below 7500ft on south facing aspects in the afternoon
  • Compression tests resulted in non-planar breaks within the top 60cm of the snowpack. Extended column tests resulted in no fracture (ECTX x2)

Weather Observations

Statistics

  • EXPIRED ON March 18, 2018 @ 6:17 am
    Published on March 17, 2018 @ 6:17 am
  • Issued by Nick Meyers - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 17, 2018 @ 6:34 am
    Published on March 16, 2018 @ 6:34 am
  • Issued by Nick Meyers - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 16, 2018 @ 6:16 am
    Published on March 15, 2018 @ 6:16 am
  • Issued by Nick Meyers - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 15, 2018 @ 6:30 am
    Published on March 14, 2018 @ 6:30 am
  • Issued by Aaron Beverly - Mount Shasta Avalanche Center

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 14, 2018 @ 7:01 am
    Published on March 13, 2018 @ 7:01 am
  • Issued by Andrew Kiefer - Mt Shasta Avalanche Center

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 13, 2018 @ 7:03 am
    Published on March 12, 2018 @ 7:03 am
  • Issued by Andrew Kiefer - Mt Shasta Avalanche Center

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 12, 2018 @ 6:40 am
    Published on March 11, 2018 @ 6:40 am
  • Issued by Andrew Kiefer - Mt Shasta Avalanche Center

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 11, 2018 @ 7:05 am
    Published on March 10, 2018 @ 6:05 am
  • Issued by Nick Meyers - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 10, 2018 @ 5:58 am
    Published on March 9, 2018 @ 5:58 am
  • Issued by Nick Meyers - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 9, 2018 @ 6:00 am
    Published on March 8, 2018 @ 6:00 am
  • Issued by Nick Meyers - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 8, 2018 @ 6:39 am
    Published on March 7, 2018 @ 6:39 am
  • Issued by Aaron Beverly - Mount Shasta Avalanche Center

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.
  • EXPIRED ON March 7, 2018 @ 6:56 am
    Published on March 6, 2018 @ 6:56 am
  • Issued by Andrew Kiefer - Mt Shasta Avalanche Center

Natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely, and LOW danger exists at all elevations. If westerly winds increase more than expected over the next 24 hours, fresh wind slabs may form in leeward terrain above treeline. As skies clear throughout the day, intense solar radiation will likely cause roller balls, pinwheels and inconsequential wet loose activity on steep sun exposed slopes.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow on isolated terrain features.

Forecast Discussion

Weather and Current Conditions

Weather Summary

24 Hour Weather Station Data @

Weather Station Temp (°F) Wind (mi/hr) Snow (in) Comments
Cur Min Max Avg Avg Max Gust Dir Depth New Water Equivalent Settlement
Mt. Shasta City (3540 ft)
Sand Flat (6750 ft)
Ski Bowl (7600 ft)
Gray Butte (8000 ft)
Castle Lake (5870 ft)
Mount Eddy (6509 ft)
Ash Creek Bowl (7250 ft)
Ash Creek Ridge (7895 ft)

Disclaimer

This advisory does not apply to Ski Areas or Highways and is for the Mount Shasta, Castle Lake and Mount Eddy backcountry. Use this information for guidance only. You may find different conditions in the backcountry and should travel accordingly. This advisory expires on midnight of the date it was posted unless otherwise noted.

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