Hatcher Pass

Since March 10th, Hatcher Pass has received less than one foot of snow. We are now experiencing consistent overnight freezes and above freezing day time temperatures. The trend towards spring has arrived a bit early. 

In specific solar exposed areas, including southeast through southwest aspects, we have seen numerous small to large wet loose point releases. South facing terrain in places like Archangel Valley, Martin Mine, Babe Ruth, Divide Ridge, and Skyscraper Peak are prime examples of where you can find evidence of this type of avalanche activity. A large D2 loose wet avalanche was reported outside of the forecast zone in Goodhope Valley on 3/20. Sagging and shedding cornices have also been observed in some locations where these large and firm masses of snow are unsupported and overhanging. Most windward slopes, ridgelines, and some confining terrain have firm windswept surfaces which makes for challenging climbing and lower quality skiing. Dry faceted snow still remains on shady aspects, particularly at higher elevations. 

Natural Loose Wet Avalanches Near Sidney Creek Southwest Aspect 3/20/24

Martin Mine Natural Wet Loose Avalanches on Southeast Aspect 3/20/24

Over the last 48 hours, ample sunshine and increasing temperatures have melted and loosened the surface snowpack, especially on those aspects with higher slope angles which receive long durations of sun. It will be possible this afternoon to trigger small to large loose wet avalanches on southeast through southwest aspects at all elevations. Terrain steeper than 40° in these locations has been shedding natural loose wet avalanches for the past couple of days. During our field observations on Wednesday 3/20, we witnessed over a dozen natural avalanches, some of them cascading over cliffs and some slowly moving large amounts of snow downhill with audible sounds. 

Timing and aspect choice will be critical for avoiding these avalanches. Getting on the terrain during the morning hours, while the surface is still cold and firm will allow for a more consolidated and refrozen snowpack. After significant sun and warming the upper snowpack will lose cohesion and it will be easier to trigger and/or naturally avalanche. Sticking to shaded aspects on the northwest through northeast portions of the compass will alleviate most of the concern for loose wet avalanches even in the afternoon hours. With temperatures expected to climb above 40F° in the afternoon at the low elevations, look out for tell tale warming signs such as rollerballs, pinwheels and wet, gloppy snow. Cloud cover and even minor wind affect could change the timing and intensity of this warming.

Natural Loose Wet Avalanches Near Pinnacle Southwest Aspect 3/20/24