Hatcher Pass
Above 3,500ft Low
2,500 to 3,500ft Low
Below 2,500ftLow
Degrees of Avalanche Danger
Avalanche Activity
Since Monday, a significant warming trend has contributed to wet loose activity at Hatcher Pass. Human triggered and natural wet-loose were observed on SE through SW aspects on steep slopes, above 40º, at all elevations, mostly in the afternoon. These avalanches ranged from D1-D2, large enough to bury, injure, or kill a person.
Above: 2/27 (?) Natural wet-loose that triggered a slab avalanche on Idaho Pk, S/SW aspect 3500′.
Above: 2/28 Natural wet-loose activity on Teacup, SW aspect 5000′.
Above: 2/28 Human triggered wet-loose on Marmot, SE aspect 3900′.
Above: 2/28 Human triggered wet-loose on Corporate Ridge of Marmot, S aspect 3400′.
Weather
This week’s weather at Independence Mine 3550′:
Temps averaged 27ºF, with a low of 15ºF and a high of 40ºF.
No new snow this week.
Overnight at 3550′:
Temps averaged 21°F.
No new snow.
This week’s weather at Marmot Weather Station 4500′:
Temps averaged 31ºF, with a low of 20ºF and a high of 41ºF.
Winds averaged SE 2 mph, max 6 mph . Gusts averaged SE 4 mph, max gust SE 11 mph.
Overnight at 4500′:
Temps averaged 21ºF overnight, with a Low of 19ºF.
Winds averaged SSE 4 mph overnight. Max gust SSE 7mph.
NWS Rec Forecast HERE
NWS point forecast HERE
State Parks Snow Report and Motorized Access information HERE
Additional Information
TREND – remaining the same
Alerts
Read entire HPAC advisory HERE.
Announcements
BOTTOM LINE
Conditions have transitioned from a winter weather pattern to spring-like conditions and a diurnal pattern of overnight freezing and afternoon thawing.
Low avalanche hazard for wet loose and dry loose avalanches at all elevations. Human triggered avalanches will be unlikely. Low hazard does not mean NO hazard.
As temperatures rise in the afternoon, pay attention to an increasing possibility for human triggered wet loose avalanches on S through SW aspects, on steep slopes above 40°, at all elevations.
Excellent skiing and riding conditions still exist at HP, but further travel will be required to find untouched terrain. The best, coldest, safest snow, will be found on the shadier aspects.
Below: Come join us for an evening of fun learning about snow science with ASME!