Lower Tauern Central

Old snowdrifts in gullies

Old snowdrifts in gullies

Danger of avalanches above the timberline is MODERATE, below that altitude LOW. On very steep slopes below 2200 m, naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches are possible. Above the timberline slab avalanches can trigger. Avalanche prone locations focus on gullies in all aspects and wind-loaded steep slopes, increasingly frequent in NW/E/S aspects. Triggering a small-to-medium sized slab avalanche is possible there by large additional loading, i.e. through a fall or stamping down the snow.

Warmth, rainfall (drizzle up to 2700 m) and subsequent nocturnal cooling have helped the snowpack to regain firmness at high altitudes. The moistened snowpack has a melt-freeze crust on the surface. The snowpack is gliding over smooth, grass-covered slopes. Above the timberline there are older drifts deposited in gullies and bowls which are blanketed a bit of new snow (in Tennen Massif and Gosaukamm 10-20 cm). In higher, wind-protected zones the loose snow can become a weak layer for the slightly-bonded new snow which is deposited on top of it.

On Thursday, visibility above the valley fog will initially be adequate, with sunshine. From Steinberge to Tennenbirge only the higher peaks will pierce the fogbanks. In the afternoon heavy cloud cover will move in from the north, which will also impede visibility in the Tauern. Winds in the Tauern will be brisk to strong from the north. At 2500 m: -5 degrees; at 1500 m: -2 degrees. On Friday, generally adequate visibility above the high fog. Winds in Tauern ridgeline terrain will become increasingly stormy from the northwest. At 3000 m: -5 degrees; at 2000m: -2 degrees.

Little change. On the Main Tauern Ridge, fresh snowdrifts generated by northerly winds.