Avalanche warnings issued for Hatcher Pass, Chugach

The Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center has issued a warning to expect elevated avalanche danger for the next 24-48 hours.

The warning comes after 8 to 10 inches of new, low density snow has accumulated over the weekend. Strong winds gusting in the 30’s mph overnight and through this morning will continue to build fresh wind slabs on westerly aspects at mid and upper elevation today. Winds will taper through the day as precipitation intensifies. 6-8” of new snow is expected Monday.

“A moderate hazard exists for human triggering small dry loose avalanches on all aspects on slopes 40° and steeper in specific locations,” warned the Center.

In locations with previously firm surfaces, these will be easier to trigger and larger in volume.

The basal facets which have plagued Hatcher Pass since the start of the season have gained stability and is not a concern today: however, future rapid loading could reawaken this problem.

Meanwhile, the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center had also issued an avalanche warning for Girdwood, Portage, Turnagain Pass, Moose Pass, and Seward.

“The backcountry avalanche danger is HIGH. Very dangerous avalanche conditions exist for the Western Chugach and Kenai Mountains in and around Girdwood, Portage, Turnagain Pass, Summit Lake, Lost Lake, and Seward.”

Heavy snowfall and strong winds will create widespread areas of unstable snow. Both human triggered and natural large avalanches are likely. Debris from avalanches above may run into valley bottoms. Travel in avalanche terrain is NOT recommended, and backcountry travelers should stay off of, and out from underneath slopes steeper than 30 degrees. Avalanches may run long distances. Outside of the backcountry, roof avalanches are likely. It is advised to pay extra attention to children, people and pets under roofs shedding snow. Similar avalanche danger may exist outside the coverage area of this or any avalanche center.

For more information visit the Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center at www.hpavalanche.org, and the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center at www.cnfaic.org.