Turnagain Pass Avalanche Forecast
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The avalanche danger is LOW at all elevations. Cornice fall and very low volume wet loose avalanches are potential snowpack issues to be aware of today.
The snowpack around the forecast area can be considered “well seasoned”. Multiple days of no precipitation and diurnal melting and freezing have helped to strengthen the snowpack. Despite several nights of mild air temps, the surface has been able to refreeze, mainly due to clear skies. While avalanche activity is unlikely today, as temperatures climb and the sun hits different aspects, it is still worth being on the lookout for the following:
Cornices
These giants are fully matured and sitting above many starting zones. Keep your distance from cornices when approaching from the side or above. Know where the snow begins and the underlying terrain ends. When traveling below cornices, make sure to spread your group out and minimize time spent underneath them.
Wet Loose Avalanches
In terrain over 45 degrees receiving direct sunlight and steep terrain in the lower elevations very low volume human triggered sluffs are possible. Pay attention to any snow moving around you and get out of its way by either stopping above it or turning away from it. It should be noted that North aspects are beginning to receive direct sun, so all aspects hold this potential.
Clear skies overnight have allowed for freezing to occur on the surface. Temps (F) in the past 24 hours:
avg. max.
Sunburst (3,812′) 37 42.3
Seattle (2,400′) 37 43.7
Center Ridge (1,880′) 42 52.4
Ridgetop winds have been light and variable. No new precipitation has fallen.
Today expect another sunny day with occasional cloud cover. Temperatures at 1,000′ will again climb into the mid 40s F. Winds will be out of the Southeast at 5-10 mph.
The extended outlook is showing a continuation of generally mild and sunny weather through the end of the week.
Date | Region | Location | Observer |
---|---|---|---|
05/22/23 | Turnagain | Avalanche: Tincan | Nick D'Alessio |
05/12/23 | Turnagain | Avalanche: Tincan, Sunburst, Magnum, Cornbiscuit | Heather Thamm |
05/07/23 | Turnagain | Observation: Tincan – Bear Tracks | CNFAIC Staff |
05/05/23 | Turnagain | Observation: Seattle Ridge | AS/ WW Forecaster |
05/02/23 | Turnagain | Observation: Cornbiscuit | Schauer/ Sturgess Forecaster |
05/02/23 | Turnagain | Observation: Seward Hwy Turnagain Pass | Joel Curtis |
04/30/23 | Turnagain | Observation: Magnum | Ayla, Kit Crosby, Barton |
04/29/23 | Turnagain | Observation: Tincan | John Sykes |
04/28/23 | Turnagain | Avalanche: Taylor Pass/Pastoral | Schauer/ Creighton Forecaster |
04/28/23 | Turnagain | Avalanche: Tincan | Andy Moderow |
Status of riding areas across the Chugach NF is managed by the Glacier and Seward Ranger Districts, not avalanche center staff. Riding area information is posted as a public service to our users and updated based on snow depth and snow density to prevent resource damage at trailhead locations. Riding area questions contact: mailroom_r10_chugach@fs.fed.us
Area | Status | Weather & Riding Conditions |
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Glacier District |
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This is a general backcountry avalanche advisory issued for Turnagain Arm with Turnagain Pass as the core advisory area. This advisory does not apply to highways, railroads or operating ski areas.