Chugach State Park

Problemi valanghivi

• 

  Wind Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alta quota
  • Limite del bosco
  • Sotto il limite del bosco

  Probabilità

  Likely

  Dimensione

  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.

  

• 

  Persistent Slabs

  N

  NE

  E

  SE

  S

  SW

  W

  NW

  • Alta quota
  • Limite del bosco
  • Sotto il limite del bosco

  Probabilità

  Likely

  Dimensione

  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.