Avalanche Risk Elevated in Juneau Following Snowstorm

Juneau, Alaska – City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ) officials are closely monitoring avalanche conditions following a recent snowstorm that has elevated the risk of slides in several areas. As of March 4, 2026, the city is operating under a “Set” stage of the “Ready, Set, Go” avalanche readiness framework, indicating a potential for avalanches impacting urban areas.

Current Conditions and Closures

Thane Road reopened at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, after being closed due to the increased avalanche risk. However, the CBJ continues to advise residents in avalanche paths to be prepared. City facilities, including pools, public libraries, the Treadwell Arena, Zach Gordon Youth Center, Dimond Park Fieldhouse, and Mount Jumbo Gym, experienced early closures on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, and some will have delayed openings on Wednesday. More details on facility closures are available from KTOO.

Avalanche Hazard Assessment

According to CBJ Avalanche Advisor John Bressette, natural avalanches have been detected on the Behrends path and the Gold Creek paths above the Flume, as well as along Thane Road. Heavy snowfall and continued north winds are contributing to the rising hazard. Large powder clouds have reached Basin Road and could potentially impact homes and roadways, reducing visibility. Further information on avalanche preparedness can be found on the City and Borough of Juneau website.

Path-Specific Risks

Bressette notes that the Gold Creek and Thane paths are more prone to large avalanches due to wind loading from north winds, experiencing a higher frequency of slides compared to Mt. Juneau’s urban paths. Recent snowfall, approximately a foot over the last week, initially bonded well to older snow surfaces, but newer, lighter, and drier snow is creating a right-side-up snowpack.

“Ready, Set, Go” Framework

The CBJ utilizes a “Ready, Set, Go” framework to communicate avalanche risk to residents. The current “Set” stage signifies that residents in mapped pathways should be aware of the elevated hazard and pay attention to updates. If the hazard level increases to “Go” (red), the CBJ will issue an evacuation advisory via email and text to Emergency Alerts subscribers. Check the CBJ website for current advisory levels.

Staying Informed

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about changing conditions by checking the CBJ avalanche webpage for daily snowpack discussions. For questions or concerns, contact emergencyresponse@juneau.gov. The CBJ will post an update on avalanche conditions on the morning of March 4, 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Avalanche risk is elevated in Juneau following a recent snowstorm.
• Thane Road has reopened, but residents in avalanche paths should remain prepared.
• The CBJ is operating under the “Set” stage of the “Ready, Set, Go” avalanche readiness framework.
• Residents should monitor updates and be prepared for potential evacuation advisories.