Turnagain Pass

A high wind warning has been issued for Thompson Pass and the Matanuska Valley as a tight pressure gradient forces cold Northern air through the Southcentral region. Luckily for Turnagain Pass and Girdwood we are slightly sheltered from this predominant Northeast flow, and winds are only expected to reach 20-30mph today along ridgetops. However the wind chill factor could be as low as -20F with temperatures expected to dip into the single digits (F.)

For Turnagain Pass this does not fair well for the overall skiing and riding quality we’ve been enjoying for the last two weeks. 2-6” of poorly bonded surface snow sitting on a firm bed surface below is likely to blow around today, and could form isolated shallow wind slabs up to 8” thick. These wind slabs could be triggered on the leeward side of steep terrain features and will be of most concern in high consequence terrain where taking a fall could cause injury. Avoid pillow-like features on steep terrain and pay attention for obvious signs of a tender wind slab like shooting cracks and hollow sounding snow. 

Girdwood Valley

In the Girdwood Valley facets forming under a crust have been found within the first 12” of the snowpack between 4000’ and 5000’, and has shown some propagation potential in test pits. This weak layer is sitting on a firm bed surface could become more sensitive today with wind loading. This is an additional reason to avoid steep terrain. This is slightly outside of our normal forecast zone, but is worth pointing out since so many people have been getting high into the Alpine over the last week. 

Frost Bite

Today might be a pretty uncomfortable day if you choose to venture into the mountains. With temperatures expected to dip into the single digits and winds forecasted as high as 30mph, the wind chill could reach -20F. Dress appropriately and remember to keep your face and extremities well insulated and covered.