Item: LESSONS LEARNED FROM AN UNPRECEDENTED SEASON IN SOUTHCENTRAL ALASKA.
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Title: LESSONS LEARNED FROM AN UNPRECEDENTED SEASON IN SOUTHCENTRAL ALASKA.
Proceedings: Proceedings, International Snow Science Workshop, Whistler, BC, Canada, 2026
Authors:
- Daniel Krueger [ Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center, Girdwood, AK USA ]
- Andrew Schauer [ Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center, Girdwood, AK USA ]
Date: 2026-09-28
Abstract: In the winter of 2024-25, the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center (CNFAC) in southcentral Alaska experienced an exceedingly dangerous snowpack, with a layer of well-preserved surface hoar that was responsible for at least 46 human-triggered avalanches and 4 fatalities during a six-week period from mid-February through late March. At least three factors– geographic location, widespread distribution, and prolonged sensitivity to human triggering– contributed to these unusually dangerous conditions. This unprecedented snowpack setup required a critical shift in CNFAC operational mindset and public risk communication strategies. This drove the CNFAC's decision to keep the danger rating at Considerable or higher for 46 consecutive days, doubling the previous record of 23 days during the 2012-13 season. In this paper we discuss how the CNFAC identified and adapted to these conditions, and how the CNFAC mitigated cumulative stress and fatigue during this challenging season. We also discuss how one fatal accident during this avalanche cycle highlights a critical need in avalanche awareness and education in the growing demographic of very capable but less experienced young motorized users. We hope this paper serves to guide decisions made in the future, whether in a professional or recreational level, and that the lessons we learned can be useful when faced with any exceptionally dangerous conditions, regardless of the snowpack specifics.
Object ID: ISSW2026_P2.34.pdf
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15788/1790098977
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Daniel Krueger
Keywords: buried surface hoar, risk communication, message fatigue
Page Number(s): 1335 - 1340
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