Hochschwab Mountains

Moderate avalanche danger - fresh snowdrifts at high altitudes

Moderate avalanche danger - fresh snowdrifts at high altitudes

Avalanche danger above the treeline in moderate, at lower altitudes danger is low. Main danger stems from freshly generated snowdrifts at high altitudes. Particularlyin steep east-facing entries, one sole person can trigger a slab avalanche. In addition, in grassy terrain, naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches are possible. Glide-cracks are indicators of imminent danger - circumvent these zones.

Fresh snow and NW winds are transporting the snow to behind abrupt drops in the terrain. Bonding is often poor, also there are weak layers inside the fresh fallen snow. The fundament is thoroughly wet up to high altitudes, the snowpack in all aspected can begin to slide over smooth ground.

On Sunday it will remain cool and instable. Along the Main Alpine Ridge and northwards therefrom, peaks will be shrouded in fog, visibility will be reduced. Intermittent snowfall in the morning, more persistent in the afternoon. Also south of the Main Alpine Ridge, the peaks will be veiled in the morning. In the afternoon, bright intervals. Snowfall level will lie at 1200m. Wind will be northerly blowing at brisk strength. At 2000 m: -3 degrees. On Sunday night, stormy NW winds, the snowfall level will descend down to valley level, but only minor snowfall is anticipated.

The snowdrift problem will persist. Otherwise, avalanche danger levels will not change.