Avalanche forecast

Chugach State Park

Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Dangerous avalanche conditions are developing in Chugach State Park as strong winds and heavy loading impact the region through Wednesday. Wind slabs up to 2' thick will form rapidly in the alpine and mid-elevation bands, especially on leeward slopes. These slabs are building over a weak, faceted snowpack, making human-triggered avalanches likely and increasing the potential for large, destructive avalanches failing on deeper persistent weak layers. Natural avalanches will be possible during periods of peak loading.  Conservative terrain selection and cautious decision-making are essential.

WEDNESDAY OUTLOOK: Winds are expected to peak early Wednesday morning, with continued loading adding up to 0.6" of water equivalent by evening. Avalanche danger will remain elevated, with ongoing potential for both natural and human-triggered avalanches. Avoid steep, wind-loaded terrain, particularly in the alpine and mid-elevation bands.

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Researchers Ian McCammon and Sara Boilen are developing new tools for managing human factors for backcountry skiers and boarders. This survey asks about personal experiences with human factors and will take 7-8 minutes to complete. Link is HERE. Thank you for your help!

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Recent Avalanches: Widespread small wet loose avalanche activity was observed in Falls Creek on Thursday on steep south-facing terrain, while widespread dry loose avalanches were noted on north-facing slopes. Additionally, a small wet loose avalanche was observed on April 4 on The Ramp on a SE aspect.

    Strong ridgetop winds beginning Tuesday morning and continuing through Wednesday will actively transport available snow, forming fresh wind slabs up to 2' thick in the alpine and mid-elevation bands. These slabs are expected to develop quickly on leeward slopes, especially in areas receiving higher wind loading such as the southern portions of the park. Natural avalanches will be likely during periods of peak loading, and human-triggered avalanches are likely. Wind slabs will be most reactive where they overlie weak, faceted layers within the snowpack, increasing the potential for larger avalanches stepping down into deeper persistent weak layers. Watch for signs of instability including shooting cracks, recent wind loading, and hollow or punchy snow. Avoid steep leeward slopes and use cautious terrain selection in wind-loaded areas.

    Ridgetop winds increasing in the Chugach State Park

    Photo: Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1.5–2.5

    Several weak, faceted layers persist in the snowpack, including near-surface facets from recent cold, clear weather, multiple mid-pack weak layers, and facets near the ground. While no avalanches have been observed on these layers since the March 19 wind event, they remain a concern—especially as new wind loading adds stress to an already poor snowpack structure.  If triggered, persistent slab avalanches could fail 1'–3' deep and produce large, destructive slides. The likelihood of triggering increases in areas where recent wind loading has added a cohesive slab over these weak layers, particularly in the alpine and mid-elevation bands.  Careful terrain selection and snowpack assessment are critical. Avoid steep, wind-loaded slopes and be especially cautious around shallow areas connected to deeper, loaded terrain.

    (3/31/2026)

    Several weak, faceted layers of snow within the snowpack

    Photo: Marc Heifetz

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