Natural Wet Loose Avalanche Cycle

A natural wet loose avalanche cycle occurred at the tail end of our recent storm. Numerous natural wet loose avalanches were observed on E-SE-S-SW-W-NW aspects between 7,000-9,000 ft on the south side of Mount Shasta on Gray Butte, Green Butte, Yellow Butte and in Sun Bowl. All avalanches were destructive size 1 (relatively harmless). The avalanches failed within the 6 inches of recent wet storm snow. Mostly likely, the storm snow was rained on overnight on 04/06 causing the avalanche cycle. The avalanches ran 100-600 vertical feet. They all initiated at a point, and entrained snow as they flowed downhill. Debris piles were 1-2 ft deep.

Additionally, a stout rain crust 1-2 inches thick has formed 8,000 ft and higher. The rain crust is supportable and very slick. The rain crust exists as the snow surface up to at least 9,000 ft and likley exists at higher elevations as well. Rain runnels were observed up to 8,500 ft. Snowmobile travel above 8,500 ft was extremely difficult due to the slick rain crust. At elevations 7,800 ft and below, 6 inches of wet sloppy snow exists at the snow surface.