Hatcher Pass
Above 3,500ft Moderate
2,500 to 3,500ft Low
Below 2,500ftLow
Degrees of Avalanche Danger
Avalanche Activity
Many small natural and human triggered dry loose avalanches were observed this week.
It is possible, but unconfirmed, that a few, small, shallow, human triggered wind slab avalanches occurred this week.
Small loose dry avalanche on Martin Mine:
Human triggered, small, loose dry avalanches with possible small wind slab(s) triggered on Marmot Mountain, SW Face yesterday:
Cross loaded slopes and terrain features with wind texture on Bullion Mountain, SE, above approx. 3900′:
Wind scoured east ridge of x4068 with sastrugi:
Old, likely natural, slab avalanche from New Year wind event (Dec 30-Jan 2) on Punk Spines, West, approx. 3900′, viewers left of Stairstep. This is representative of the potential avalanche hazard that may still be human triggered in isolated locations. Any significant, rapid new load, such as new snow or wind, may activate similar activity.
Weather
This week’s weather at 3550′:
Temps averaged 7ºF, with a low of -5ºF and a high of 16ºF.
IM reported 1″ of new snow.
Overnight at 3550′:
Temps averaged 7°F.
No new snow.
This week’s weather at 4500′:
Temps averaged 3ºF, with a low of -8ºF and a high of 11ºF.
Winds averaged S 3 mph, max 12 mph . Gusts averaged SW 7 mph, max gust SW 29 mph.
Overnight at 4500′:
Temps averaged 3ºF overnight, with a Low of -4ºF.
Winds averaged SSE 6 mph overnight. Max gust SSE 19 mph.
NWS Rec Forecast HERE
State Parks Snow Report and Motorized Access information HERE
Additional Information
View past advisories in the archives HERE.
TREND
Light to moderate winds today and into tonight will not be increasing the avalanche hazard. Models show light to moderate wind speeds continuing through Sunday. While wind speeds will be strong enough to transport snow, there is not much available snow left to transport.Â
A trace of snow is in the forecast for tonight.
The avalanche hazard is expected to remain the same through the weekend.
NWS point forecast HERE
Announcements
BOTTOM LINE
A MODERATE avalanche hazard exists for persistent slab, wind slab and loose dry avalanches at upper elevations. Human triggered avalanches are possible and natural avalanches are unlikely.
Slab avalanches are the main concern, up to 1-5 feet deep (consistent with the depth of the snowpack), and large enough to bury, injure, or kill a person.Â
A LOW hazard exists at low to mid elevations, natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely.
AVOID STEEP SLOPES WITHÂ TERRAIN TRAPS;Â choose slopes with gentle, fanning runouts.
Mark your calendars for the annual Hatcher Pass Avalanche Workshop coming up on Saturday January 19th. Please carpool as parking is limited.Â
Save the date: HPAC Annual Fundraiser and Cabin Fever Reliever, Saturday,February 2, 2019 at the Moose Lodge in Palmer. Tickets available now for $20 HEREÂ or $25 at the door.
