Lechtal Alps East

Increase in avalanche danger as a consequence of new snow and wind, in the regions exposed to a lot of wind caution is to be exercised in particular.

Increase in avalanche danger as a consequence of new snow and wind, in the regions exposed to a lot of wind caution is to be exercised in particular.

The fresh wind slabs represent the main danger. As a consequence of a strong to storm force wind from westerly directions, avalanche prone wind slabs will form in the course of the day in particular in gullies and bowls and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. The wind slabs can be released easily, even by a single winter sport participant, in particular on northwest to north to east facing aspects. Caution is to be exercised in particular on near-ridge slopes above approximately 2200 m. The avalanche prone locations are sometimes covered with new snow and are difficult to recognise. During the day: As a consequence of the sometimes strong westerly wind the avalanche prone locations will become more prevalent. An increasing number of mostly small gliding avalanches are possible as a consequence of the new snow. Areas with glide cracks are to be avoided. Avalanches can additionally in very isolated cases be released in the weakly bonded old snow. These avalanche prone locations are to be found especially on very steep shady slopes above approximately 2400 m, caution is to be exercised in particular at transitions from a shallow to a deep snowpack. Avalanches can reach medium size.

Over a wide area 10 to 20 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, will fall. As a consequence of the occasionally strong westerly wind, fresh snow drift accumulations will form in the course of the day. Shady slopes: The old snowpack consists of faceted crystals. The fresh wind slabs are lying on soft layers. Steep sunny slopes: The fresh wind slabs will be deposited on a crust.

Fresh wind slabs are to be evaluated critically.