Avalanche forecast

Summit Lake

Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

A storm is impacting the area today bringing a few inches of new snow accompanied by strong easterly wind. Expect the danger to rise through the day, especially above 2,500', in places that receive more than a few inches of new snow. Chances that a person could trigger an avalanche up to 1' deep in windblown snow will increase later in the day. Stick to the soft snow in the trees for safer conditions and better visibility.

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Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Summit Lake is only forecast to receive 1 to 2" of new snow today above 500'. The danger will be directly associated with how much new snow falls. In areas exposed to the wind, that recieve more than a few inches of new snow, there will be chances a person could trigger an avalanche up to 1' deep in windblown snow. This will be more likely just below ridgelines, on steep rolls, and in cross-loaded gullies where the snow tends to deposit in these conditions.

    Watch for blowing snow and avoid the places where it is landing. Wind slabs feel like firm snow and may produce a crack that shoots out from your sled, skis or board. This indicates the snow needs some time to adjust to the new load. 

    Slopes facing the sun have been getting warm during the day and freezing at night forming a crust. This new snow may slide off that crust especially easily on these aspects (southeast through southwest) in the form of Loose Snow Avalanches or small slabs.

    Loose Snow Avalanches: Loose snow avalanches could be triggered by a person today on steep slopes on any aspect. These should be on the small side, but watch for obstacles below in case you get caught up.

    (4/7/2026)

    DOT RWIS camera image from this morning showing snowfall at the road level at Summit Lake.

Regions covered