Southern Cairngorms

SC 20.02 Avalanches likely in steep lee locations on N through S to SE aspects above 900 metres. Avalanche hazard Consiiderable.

SC 20.02 Avalanches likely in steep lee locations on N through S to SE aspects above 900 metres. Avalanche hazard Consiiderable.

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable accumulations will develop mainly in wind sheltered locations on North through East to South-East aspects above 900 metres. Here, avalanches are likely with gully tops, scarp slopes and steep convex features most affected. Some instabilities may also be possible in steep lee locations at lower levels. Newly formed cornices will be prone to collapse. Aspects exposed to the strong winds will be scoured or bare. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Initially remaining cold but around dawn, there will be a temperature spike with the freezing level briefly lifting above the summits before dropping back to around 500 metres by the end of the day. Snow showers throughout, heaviest overnight, easing slightly and turning to rain for a period during the temperature spike. Winds will be very strong, Southerly overnight veering to the West by the afternoon. Observed Weather Influences: Snowfall at all levels overnight but dry during the day. Very strong but variable winds from the Westerly quadrant. ObservedSnowStability: Unstable windslab had developed overnight with avalanche debris and cornice collapses noted mainly on North-East and East aspects above 950 metres. Due to strong variable winds, stability had generally improved by daybreak. Many aspects had been scoured with biggest areas of windslab found on North-East to South-East aspects above 800 metres. Cornices were also noted above these aspects. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.