December 29, 2016

Avalanche Danger Update

Potentially heavy snowfall is forecast for Chugach State Park Thursday and Friday.  If this snowfall materializes, avalanche danger in Chugach State Park will increase.  Keep in mind that the mountains of Chugach State Park are likely to receive significantly more snow than the lower elevations around town.

Avalanche danger is currently expected to rise through Thursday into Friday, and reach a peak danger sometime Friday morning to afternoon.  If the mountains of Chugach State Park do receive the currently forecast significant snowfall, potentially dangerous avalanche conditions will likely persist through the weekend.

The current Chugach State Park “snowpack” (it only exists in wind loaded areas) is thin and weak.  Any significant snowfall or increase in wind speeds will increase avalanche danger.