Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center

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ARCHIVED FORECAST - All forecasts expire after 24 hours from the posting date/time.
Issued
Thu, January 19th, 2023 - 7:00AM
Expires
Fri, January 20th, 2023 - 7:00AM
Forecaster
Jake Kayes
The Bottom Line

The avalanche danger is LOW on all aspects and elevations. 

With no new snow or significant weather events occurring since the last forecast, the snowpack remains relatively unchanged. 

2 inches of low-density snow that fell last week continues to hide the firm snow beneath. 

Even in low danger, it’s important to use safe travel protocol. 

Thu, January 19th, 2023
Upper Elevation
Above 3,500'
Low (1)
Avalanche risk
Mid Elevation
2,500'-3,500'
Low (1)
Avalanche risk
Low Elevation
Below 2,500'
Low (1)
Avalanche risk
Upper Elevation
Above 3,500'
Avalanche risk
Low (1)
Mid Elevation
2,500'-3,500'
Avalanche risk
Low (1)
Low Elevation
Below 2,500'
Avalanche risk
Low (1)
Danger Scale:
No Rating (0)
Low (1)
Moderate (2)
Considerable (3)
High (4)
Extreme (5)
Recent Avalanches

No natural or human-triggered avalanches have been observed since Dec 23rd.

Avalanche Problem 1
  • Normal Caution
    Normal Caution
Normal Caution
Normal Caution means triggering an avalanche is unlikely but not impossible.
More info at Avalanche.org

Triggering an avalanche of any size is unlikely.

The relatively warm weather has allowed almost every weak layer in the snowpack to gain strength. Even the basal facets found at the ground have gained strength and are continuing to round. The forecast area will need a major weather event to reawaken the basal facets at the ground. 

Good riding can be found in Hatcher Pass on lower-angle slopes where soft surface snow hides the firm conditions underneath. 

Interesting surface texture can be found throughout the forecast area.

Remember that low danger doesn’t mean no danger. Spread out when ascending steep slopes, descend one at a time, and regroup in safe zones. Everyone in your group should have avalanche rescue equipment and know how to use it. 

Please perform a snow dance or make a sacrifice to Ullr to help improve riding conditions.

Weather
Thu, January 19th, 2023

NWS AVG Forecast here.

NWS point forecast here.

Marmot Weather Station here.

Independence Mine Snotel here.

State Parks Snow Report and Motorized Access information here.

XC trail grooming report for Mat-Su, Anchorage, and Kenai here.

Observations
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