North and center of Aran

New snow and wind slabs are to be assessed with care and prudence.

New snow and wind slabs are to be assessed with care and prudence.

Fresh and somewhat older wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant especially on east to south to west facing aspects above approximately 2000 m. In many cases the avalanches in these loacations are medium-sized. Some small dry loose snow avalanches are possible as a consequence of the new snow. The avalanche prone locations are to be found especially adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls. Weak layers deep in the old snowpack can still be released in very isolated cases on little-used, rather lightly snow-covered shady slopes. In particular on wind-loaded slopes these are in some cases large. On very steep grassy slopes and on sunny slopes gliding avalanches and snow slides are possible from the early morning, even medium-sized ones. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger.

15 to 20 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, fell on Friday in all altitude zones. As a consequence of new snow and a moderate to strong wind from northeasterly directions, sometimes easily released wind slabs formed especially in the vicinity of peaks. Faceted weak layers exist deep in the snowpack on wind-protected shady slopes. Whumpfing sounds and stability tests indicate the unfavourable bonding of the snowpack on steep shady slopes. Above the tree line there are 50 to 100 cm of snow, and even more in some localities. At intermediate and high altitudes snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind.

Monday: Gradual decrease in avalanche danger as a consequence of warming during the day and solar radiation.