High-Latitude Maritime Zones: Slopes near Haines
Danger: Unassessed See Scale
This will be the last update for now, but avalanche season is definitely NOT over. Destructive climax avalanches will occur with the imminent spring shed, as will isolated skier-triggered wet slabs. You can greatly decrease your exposure to these dangers by avoiding slopes with glide cracks and getting off steep sunny slopes before the snow softens to about ankle-deep.
Temperatures are warming up to freezing above 4,000ft during the day, and nighttime freezes are becoming thin. Dangerous loose wet slides and debris shed will be common on steep/cliffy areas as the sun hits.
Any daytime cloudiness will reduce the threat of wet slides, but cloud cover overnight can prevent a solid freeze, actually making matters worse. If the sun is out after a warm, cloudy night, expect an increase in slide danger. Any rain that falls on the snow will also greatly increase the danger of wet slabs.
Finally, beware of fresh wind slabs during and after snowstorms. New snow will not bond well to our surface of crusts on sunny slopes and facets in the shade. This scenario is still quite possible in the alpine as spring slowly yields to summer and the last few snows fall up high.
This will be the last update of the season. Thanks so much to all who helped out this year. Always practice safe travel techniques, have fun, and check back in this fall.
Transitional Zones: Mountain areas seaward of interior passes
Danger: Unassessed See Scale
See above for more information.
Chilkat Pass Zone:
Danger: Unassessed See Scale
See above for more information.
Disclaimer: Please note that this snowpack/hazard information is not funded or endorsed by any governmental organization. Use the data on this website at your own discretion as part of a thorough evaluation of the avalanche hazard in the field. Remember that conditions vary greatly from place to place and hour to hour, so evaluate the snow you find locally, and compare it to what you read on this website. We are not responsible for how you use the information contained on this site, and assume no liability for its use. Remember, information is no substitute for experience. Get educated in avalanche safety. The information on this website is not sufficient for completely safe backcountry decision making. Use at your own risk.
