Chugach State Park

 Avalanche danger is Low at all elevations. It has been some time since the last significant snowfall or reported avalanche activity; however, Low danger does not mean no danger. Isolated areas of instability may linger on steep, wind-loaded alpine slopes and in wind-exposed terrain at mid elevations. Continue to practice safe travel protocols—travel one at a time, keep partners in sight, and carry rescue gear—regardless of the danger rating.   FALLS CREEK: The snowpack in Falls Creek differs from much of the forecast zone and carries a slightly elevated persistent slab concern, warranting thoughtful terrain selection in steeper areas.   SUNDAY AVALANCHE OUTLOOK: The weather pattern is expected to remain similar to Saturday, with avalanche danger likely staying the same. We will issue our next forecast for CSP next Saturday, March 7.

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:

We’re excited to roll out changes to our Chugach State Park forecast product beginning today, February 28. Starting this week, we will issue a full avalanche forecast with a danger rating, avalanche problems, and a 24-hour outlook every Saturday morning at 7 AM.  We will continue publishing one forecast per week (Saturday mornings) through the end of the season and will reassess the product this spring. We appreciate your support and feedback as we continue to grow and strengthen the program.

Free Forecaster Chat at the Breeze Inn in Seward, March 5! Grab some food and drink at 6 pm on March 5 and join CNFAC forecaster Mik Dalpes to discuss the ‘state of the snowpack’, learn about resources on the CNFAC website, discuss tips for managing persistent slab problems, and bring your hard question for a Q & A.  The Mt. Alice room is located just off the lobby of The Breeze Inn Hotel located at 303 North Harbor Dr. right off 3rd Ave in Seward.

Recent Avalanches: Over the past week, we received six observations from Chugach State Park, with no reports of new avalanche activity.  The avalanches noted in the Harp Mountain and Three Bowls observations (Three Bowls and Two Bowls) are suspected to have failed near the base of the snowpack and likely occurred during the January 27–28 wind and snow loading event. No new avalanche activity has been documented in over two weeks.

Avalanche danger is Low in Chugach State Park due to the continued lack of recent snowfall and avalanche activity. Triggering a small, shallow wind slab in steep alpine terrain or on wind-exposed slopes at mid elevations is unlikely, though not impossible. Several weak layers remain in the snowpack, including mid-pack weaknesses and one near the ground. No avalanches have been documented on these layers in approximately a month.  Triggering an avalanche on these layers is unlikely, but not out of the question.  Remember, Low danger does not mean no danger. Maintain safe travel practices: space out, use safe zones, and expose only one person at a time in avalanche terrain.