Avalanche forecast

Summit Lake

Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 months ago.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

Yesterday's weak storm continues today bringing a few more inches of new snow above 1,400' with moderate southeast wind. The main concern will be the chance that a person could trigger an avalanche up to 1' deep in windblown snow above 2,500'. Small, Wet Loose avalanches could be triggered by a person below 2,500' where wet snow and rain are falling. We expect that human-triggered avalanches today will be small, but it is always good to use safe travel practices and consider the consequences below if you are choosing steep slopes.

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Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    A few inches of new snow fell yesterday above 500' accompanied by wind from the south. New snow amounts increase with elevation, so there could be quite a bit more new snow above 2,500' than there is at the weather station. Ensure you are re-evaluating as you travel through different elevations.

    Slopes above 2,500' probably have some fresh Wind Slabs up to 1' deep just below ridgelines, on steep rolls, and in cross-loaded gullies. A crack shooting out from your machine, board, or skis means the snowpack needs more time to adjust to the new load. Traveling one at a time on steep slopes and choosing slopes without consequences below are some things you can do to reduce your chances of a serious outcome if you get caught in any of today's problems.

    Loose Snow Avalanches are something to pay attention to today. On steep slopes with cold snow, Dry Loose Avalanches could entrain lots of snow making it difficult to ride or escape. Wet snow and rain are falling below 2,500' making Wet Loose Avalanches possible to be triggered by a person. Watch for rollerballs to know you could trigger this type of avalanche. 

    (4/8/2026)

    DOT RWIS camera images show that it was snowing lightly through the night at Summit Lake road level.

    Photo: DOT RWIS camera

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