Avalanche Advisory for 2014-03-01 07:41:15

The snowpack at mid-elevations was adjusting well yesterday to all the added weight from the last few days but there were still some observed weakness's present within the new snow. Multiple stability tests showed weakness 15-20 cm down from the surface failing between CT 2-4 and ECT3. This failure seemed to be new snow density changes and not threatening and actually gaining strength at mid-elevations  during the day time high at 2:00p.m. on Gray Butte.  33cm form the surface there was another density change that may have had a slight melt/freeze crust which made for a higher quality shear but again the warm temps seemed to be 'healing' this weakness. It was failing consistently at CT8 and had a ECT5 result.

Rapid settlement, roller balls, tree bombs and sun wheels were all observed yesterday at mid-elevation slopes. There seemed to be greenhousing going on during the daytime high. Then the clouds broke and temps dropped for the late afternoon.

The clouds broke yesterday afternoon offering visibilty to the upper mountain and some of the wind affect but no natural activity was noticeable. Wind slabs on the upper elevations could release on the same weak interfaces we have observed at lower elevations but with more energy and consequences. All this new snow could be 'slabbing up' nicely on the upper mountain.

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Some trailheads are still accessible by 4 x 4 vehicle. Be cautious of any overnight trips on the mountain with snow involved. Storms can easily dump large amounts of snow to the area and make it difficult to drive off the mountain! While Northgate, Brewer Ck and Clear Ck trailheads are officially closed, the bathrooms are still open with packout bags inside, and one can still access the Mt Shasta Wilderness. However, your summit pass and wilderness permits must be purchased at McCloud or Mt Shasta Ranger Stations. NO DOGS are allowed in the Mt Shasta Wilderness OR Sierra Club Property. Thanks!

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Terrain:  Remember most of the terrain that we like to play on is greater than 30 degrees.  Avalanches are possible on anything steeper than 30 degrees.  Avoid cornices, rock bands, terrain traps and runout zones of avalanche paths.

Weather:  Most of our areas avalanche danger will occur 24-48 hours after a storm. We still can see persistent weak layers from time to time and we always will be sure to let you know about that!  Heed the basic signs: Wind (significant snow transport and depositions), Temperature (rain/snow/rain/snow, which in turn weakens the snowpack), and Precipitation (Snow or rain add weight and stress to the current snowpack).

Snowpack:  If snow accumulates, give the snowpack a chance to adjust to the new snow load before you play on or near steep slopes (greater than 30 degrees).  Most direct action avalanches occur within 24-48 hours of recent snowfall.  Watch for obvious signs of snowpack instability such as recent natural avalanche activity, collapsing of the snowpack (often associated with a “whumphing” sound), and shooting cracks. If you see these signs of instability, limit your recreation to lower angle slopes.

Human Factor: Don’t forget to carry and know how to use avalanche rescue gear. You should NOT be skiing or climbing potential avalanche slopes without having beacons, shovels, and probes.  Only one person in a group should be exposed to potential avalanche danger at a time.  Remember, climbing, skiing, and riding down the edge of slopes is safer than being in the center.  Just because another person is on a slope doesn’t mean that it is safe.  Be an individual!  Make your own decisions.  Heed the signs of instability: rapid warming, “whumphing” noises, shooting cracks, snowing an inch an hour or more, rain, roller balls, wind loading, recent avalanche activity.