An avalanche in Eagle River, Alaska covered Hiland Road with 60 to 80 feet of snow, but no homes were hit. Officials are preparing to set up a temporary shelter for residents who may not have heat in their homes for several days. The avalanche likely released naturally due to high winds that loaded the slope with snow, according to the director of the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center. People have triggered avalanches in nearby portions of Chugach State Park in recent weeks, and there are several weak layers buried in the snowpack from storms early in the season. Avalanche danger was high in several areas, and dangerous conditions are expected to persist into the weekend.