Border Graie Alps

Gradual increase in avalanche danger as a consequence of new snow and wind.

Gradual increase in avalanche danger as a consequence of new snow and wind.

As a consequence of new snow and a moderate to strong wind from easterly directions, sometimes deep wind slabs formed. The avalanche prone locations are to be found adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. Even single winter sport participants can release avalanches in many places, including large ones. Medium-sized and large natural avalanches are possible. In particular on steep shady slopes the avalanches can be triggered in the old snow. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack are a clear indication of a weakly bonded snowpack. The avalanche prone locations are prevalent and are barely recognisable because of the poor visibility. It is inadvisable to engage in ski touring outside marked and open pistes.

Over a wide area 25 to 40 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen since Tuesday above approximately 2000 m. Over a wide area 25 to 40 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, will fall on Thursday above approximately 1800 m. In the last few days sometimes deep wind slabs formed at intermediate and high altitudes. The new snow of last week is bonding only slowly with the old snowpack. Large-grained weak layers exist in the old snowpack on shady slopes.

New snow and wind slabs above the tree line. Restraint is advisable on this first sunny day after a long period of poor weather.