Post Storm - Ice & Rime Glaze on Mt Shasta

Today's objective was to get well above treeline and see if any actual dry(ish) snow fell on the mountain from last night's small storm, and check on wind and blowing snow.

Below treeline, trees were dripping like crazy even with cloudy skies. It felt very coastal moving through the foggy mist. Visibility was terrible. Temperatures were above freezing, maxing out at 33 degrees F at 8,000 feet. About an inch of very wet snow could be measured in some areas, resting on top of a soft crust.

Near treeline, visibility was in and out. A widespread, thin, breakable rain glaze dominated snow surfaces (see pictures). Westerly wind was light with gusty pockets. No new snow could be measured.

Above treeline, the icy rain glaze gradually transitioned to a rime crust, beginning ~9,000 feet. Westerly wind was stronger and more prevalent. Visibility was decent, but with flat light.

The recent, warm storm (12-22/12-23) has settled out the snow considerably and will lock up the snowpack tight. About .24" of water fell. Freezing levels were near 8,000 to 9,000 feet.  An ice, transitioning to rime glaze, dominates the snowpack near and above treeline, respectively. This may break down with the even warmer temps forecasted for the weekend. No blowing snow was observed, even at upper mountain elevations. It's grade A, Shasta plaster up there. Be careful of firm, icy conditions if climbing on steep slopes.

• Observation Location: Mt Shasta, south side, Bunny Flat to Old Ski Bowl
• Elevation: 6,950 to 10,000 feet
• Date: 20221223
• Time: 0930-1200
• Observer: N Meyers
• Sky Conditions: Overcast (OVC) 
• Current Precipitation: Mist/fog 5,000 to 7,000 feet
• Air Temperature: 33 °F
• Surface Penetration: Not measured
• Total Snow Depth (HS): 51 in 
• 24-hour New Snow Depth (HN24): 1 in 
• 24-hour New Snow Water Equivalent (HN24W): .24 in 
• Wind Direction: W | NW
• Wind Speed: Moderate (M), 17-25 mi/hr, small trees sway