Avalanche Danger Increased

Storms bring warnings

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By Janessa Webb
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Story Created: Jan 10, 2012 at 11:08 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Jan 10, 2012 at 11:08 AM AKDT

As a fast approaching storm is making its way from the southwest, it will bring heavy moisture along with possible wind gusts of 95 mph. These types of weather conditions will increase the threat for avalanche danger along Turnagain Arm and backcountry areas.

With over 81 inches of snow falling for the season already and another 7 to 14 inches headed our way, it has many outdoor enthusiasts wanting to get out. However, this next system has a subtropical flow associated with it, which will bring warmer conditions along with possible precipitation in the form of rain, making for quite the mess around town and in backcountry areas.

Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center (CNFAIC) has a close eye out on avalanche danger with another storm quickly approaching tonight into Wednesday.

Currently avalanche danger is at "considerable" which means natural or human triggered avalanches could occur. With wind kicking into high gear the threat is likely to change to "high," meaning human-triggered avalanches will be increased with new snow along with wind slabs. Primary concerns today will be the arrival of high winds and intense precipitation.

This will be our first big wind event since last year, which is giving us a red flag for heightened avalanche activities.

Remember, most avalanches occur during or within 24 hours of a storm.

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