Pre Alps

Main danger: fresh snowdrift accumulations

Main danger: fresh snowdrift accumulations

Avalanche danger above 1600 m is moderate, danger below that altitude is low. Triggering fresh snowdrift accumulations is possible even by minimum additional loading. Danger zones occur esp. in steep ridgeline terrain, in gullies, bowls and behind abrupt discontinuities in the terrain. The frequency of danger zones increases with ascending altitude.

There was 25-40 cm of fresh snow registered last night, accompanied by strong winds, deposited atop a springlike snowpack surface, dominated by melt-freeze crusts. Therefore, the fresh fallen snow will bond well with the rough-hewn surfaces. The stability of the snowpack is worse in wind-protected shady terrain at high altitudes due to the expansively metamorphosed (faceted) layers and wherever the fresh snow is blanketed by fresh snowdrifts. At intermediate altitudes there is little snow on the ground. At low altitudes the fresh snow was often deposited on bare ground.

It will be a cold day in the mountains, with strong E/NE winds which will make it seem even colder. Dense clouds will bring a few snow showers, focal point from Kleinwalsertal to Arlberg region. At 2000m: -13 degrees; at 3000m: -21 degrees. Intensifying E/NE winds during the daytime.

On Monday the temperatures will rise, but sunshine will be limited. Moderate to brisk easterly winds. Starting on Monday, avalanche danger will recede.