High Avalanche Danger Warning for Anchorage Hillside

The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center issued an avalanche warning on May 1, 2026, citing high avalanche danger across the Western Chugach and Kenai Mountains. The warning is in effect from 6 a.m. On May 1 to 6 a.m. On May 3, 2026.

Forecasters identified a significant winter storm moving into Southcentral Alaska as the primary driver of the risk. The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds, which are likely to increase the instability of snowpacks in mountain terrain.

Affected Regions and Risk Areas

The warning covers a broad area of Southcentral Alaska, stretching from Anchorage to Seward. Specific high-risk zones include the Anchorage Hillside, Girdwood, Portage, the Interior Kenai Peninsula, and the Southern Kenai Mountains.

Additional affected terrain includes areas around Turnagain Pass, Summit Lake, and Lost Lake. Officials stated that both human-triggered and natural avalanches are likely through the weekend as the storm progresses.

Forecast and Safety Outlook

According to reports from the Anchorage Daily News and Radio Kenai, the danger rating for backcountry areas is currently high. The rapid influx of new snow and wind-loading are creating dangerous conditions that could lead to spontaneous slides or those triggered by skiers, snowboarders, and hikers.

The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center continues to monitor the storm’s impact on the regional snowpack to provide updated guidance for those traveling in the backcountry.