Lechtal Alps East

The fresh and older wind slabs of the last few days represent the main danger.

The fresh and older wind slabs of the last few days represent the main danger.

As a consequence of new snow and a sometimes storm force wind from westerly directions, further wind slabs will form in particular in gullies and bowls and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. The fresh and older wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant in particular on northwest to north to east facing aspects above the tree line. Caution is to be exercised on near-ridge slopes. The prevalence of the avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. The avalanche prone locations are sometimes covered with new snow and are difficult to recognise. As a consequence of the sometimes strong westerly wind the avalanche prone locations will become more prevalent as the day progresses. Small and, in isolated cases, medium-sized gliding avalanches are possible. Areas with glide cracks are to be avoided.

Over a wide area 5 to 10 cm of snow, and up to 20 cm in some localities, will fall in the next few hours. As a consequence of the strong to storm force westerly wind, fresh snow drift accumulations will form in the course of the day. The sleet gave rise on Tuesday to increasing moistening of the snowpack below approximately 2200 m. Shady slopes above approximately 2400 m: The old snowpack consists of faceted crystals. All aspects above approximately 2200 m: The fresh wind slabs are lying on soft layers.

Fresh wind slabs require caution.