Avalanche forecast

Seward and Lost Lake

Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Northwest winds yesterday created fresh wind slabs up to 1’ deep in the upper elevations. These winds are supposed to become light this afternoon. If you get out before the winds calm down, look out for slopes that are actively being loaded with snow. Large cornices falling are also a concern so give them some space if you find yourself near one.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The Avalanche Rescue Workshop at Glen Alps has been POSTPONED to Sunday, February 9th.  The workshop is free and all experience levels are welcome. Click HERE for more information.

It's not too late to catch us on our brewery tour this week. The Girdwood Brewery is hosting us tomorrow for a conversation about the world of snow and avalanches:

  • Forecaster Chat - Thursday, February 6th, 6-7:30 p.m. at Girdwood Brewing Co. in Girdwood. Andrew Schauer will discuss recent CNFAC research and highlight ways it can help your backcountry game. Details HERE.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    We saw wind blown snow actively loading slopes in Lost Lake and Seward which likely formed a new batch of wind slabs up to 1’ deep in upper elevations. Northwest winds (15 to 20 mph) are supposed to become light in the afternoon. Look for blowing snow which will be forming fresh wind slabs if you are getting an early start this morning. Older wind slabs will be hard to trigger but may be larger and more widespread.  These can be found below ridge lines and on round “convex” features on slopes and in valley bottoms. Look for clues such as hollow sounding snow and shooting cracks indicating you are traveling on a wind slab.

    Cornices: Cornice falls are less likely today but could be a concern if someone wanders on to one. Give them a lot of room when you are traveling on ridges. 

Regions covered