The Chugach Avalanche Information Center issued an advisory for the Chugach mountains surrounding Girdwood and the Kenai mountains surrounding Portage Valley, Turnagain Pass, and Cooper Landing.
According to the advisory, avalanche danger is rated CONSIDERABLE. Temperatures increased yesterday afternoon to near 32°F at sea level – as 4-8″ of new snow fell throughout the forecast region. With steady winds capable of transporting snow and gusting to 60 mph, new snow instabilities are likely.
The new storm snow is falling on top of a layer of surface formed in late January. Although freshly formed storm slabs may be relatively shallow, if triggered, they could take a rider or skier off guard and down slope. With moderate temperatures and new snow blowing around at the ideal wind speeds, formation of wind slabs on the lee aspects of ridges and gullies is likely. With buried surface snow reported on all aspects and elevations, these could be touchy to trigger.
Similar avalanche danger may exist at locations outside the coverage area of any avalanche center. Check www.avalanche.org for your closest avalanche center and to learn more about how to identify avalanche hazards.
