New links on the sidebar include NOAA Matanuska Valley weather, Independence Mine SnoTel site, and an Alaska satellite image.

Last night produced a trace of snow at Hatcher Pass with reports of more accumulation in Palmer.

Some small avalanches from wind loads have been observed recently at Hatcher Pass.. This is a common theme early in the season. Small accumulations of snow get blown around into thicker hard slabs that fail on weak bed surfaces or the ground. If you were in a terrain trap you could be injured, or if you found a large wind loaded bowl or starting zone you may be able to trigger an avalanche that could injure you.

The likelihood of this type of hazard resulting in an injury is limited based on the fact that the skiing is poor, and you are more likely to hurt yourself imbibing too much party mix at your favorite Halloween party this weekend.

As the snow begins to add up and backcountry skiing begins to take off with the typical recrystalized powder mixed with rocks, core shots and ski repair, HPAC will begin a more offical forecast.