Nock Mountains

Snowdrifts deposited on a trigger-sensitive base

Snowdrifts deposited on a trigger-sensitive base

Danger above 1500 m is CONSIDERABLE (3), below that altitude danger is MODERATE. Main problem: freshly generated snowdrifts, triggerable in steep terrain by one sole person, releasing medium-to-large sized avalanches. Danger zones mainly in steep gullies and bowls, near to and distant from ridgelines, esp. NE/E/SW facing steep terrain. Triggering an avalanche is possible even with minimum additional loading (1 person). In extremely steep terrain below 1800 m, small-to-medium glide snow avalanches are possible.

After the rain impact up to nearly 2000 m, 20-50 cm of fresh snow were deposited. Above 2000 m, up to 80 cm. The fresh snow has settled well. Since Saturday afternoon, however, W/N winds have transported the fresh snow, deposited drifts atop a cold, loose base which is prone to triggering. Below 1800 m, the snowpack is gliding over the smooth ground.

Skies on Sunday night will be clear and star-studded. On the snowpack surface, hoar can form. On Monday, generally adequate visibility. Heavy clouds will create diffuse light conditions but the peaks will remain in the clear. It will remain dry. In the Tauern (apart from Main Ridge) strong southerly winds will be blowing (50 km/hr), in the other mountain ranges the southerly wind will remain moderate to strong (30 km/hr). Temperatures will rise. At midday in the northern regions: -2 degrees at 2000m, in the south -8 degrees; at 3000 m: -8 degrees. On Tuesday, adequate visibility in the morning, a bit of sunshine. In the afternoon, reduced visibility due to fog and snow showers. Only a small amount of fresh snow is anticipated. The snowfall level will temporarily ascend to 1000m, then descend again. Southerly winds will slacken off rapidly, winds will be no disturbance. Temperatures will recede somewhat. At 2000 m, from -2 to -6 degrees; at 3000 m, -9 degrees.

Consequently avoid drifted masses. Proneness to triggering remains.