Avalanche forecast

Turnagain Pass and Girdwood

Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Wind slab avalanches 1 to 3’ deep will be easier to trigger on steep wind loaded slopes above 2,500’. Dry loose avalanches will also be a concern on steep slopes. Look for these problems and assess the snow before heading into steep consequential terrain. There is also some uncertainty on how the snowpack is adjusting to the storm snow in the Girdwood Valley and the south end of Turnagain Pass. These areas warrant a little more caution if you head into avalanche terrain. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    There is a chance a human could trigger a wind slab avalanche on steep wind loaded slopes. These could be anywhere from 1 to 3’ deep from moderate southwest winds (40+ mph gusts) that finally took a break on Monday afternoon as the storm made its final exit. In its wake, lighter winds are forecast today with ridgetop winds from the west and northwest ranging 10 to 20 mph. 

    They may be easier for a human to trigger at higher elevations and can be found below ridges, convexities and in cross loaded gullies. Soft snow becoming stiffer and cracks shooting out from underneath you are clues that you are traveling on a wind slab. Slopes sheltered from the wind will be the safest place to chase soft snow. 

    Girdwood Valley and southern Turnagain Pass: We have limited information on the stability of the snow in these areas. They also have a thinner snowpack which may make it easier to trigger a slab avalanche. Keep this in mind if you head to these zones and send us an observation if you get a chance.

    Recent Avalanches: The storm produced some large avalanches in the Girdwood valley and Summit Lake. Poor visibility has made it difficult to see what type of avalanches these were as well as the recent avalanche activity in Turnagain Pass. 

    Dry Loose Avalanches: There is a good chance of triggering a dry loose avalanche on steep slopes. This problem could have higher consequences if carried into terrain traps and gullies where snow can pile up.

    Cornice Falls: Cornices have likely grown in size during the storm. Try to avoid spending time under them as they can be a large trigger to slopes above you. If you find yourself on a ridge, give these some room as they can break under you.  

    (1/26/2025)

    A lot of new snow available that blew into winds slabs yesterday morning.

    Photo: Caleigh Warner

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