Bregenzerwald Mountains

Beware small snowdrifts

Beware small snowdrifts

Avalanche danger is predominantly low. Caution is urged towards older snowdrift accumulations particularly in ridgeline terrain on north-facing slopes and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. In addition, isolated avalanches can be triggered by large additional loading in extremely steep terrain. Apart from the risks of being buried in snow masses, the danger of being swept along and forced to take a fall require attentiveness.

The small, shallow snowdrifts generated on steep shady slopes have bonded only poorly with the old snowpack surface. On steeper shady slopes, a melt-freeze crust capable of bearing loads is evident widespread, this softens up during daytime hours. The old snowpack is generally well-settled and compact.

On Tuesday an intermediate high will bring good weather for winter sports. Residual clouds will swiftly give way to sunshine. Cirrus clouds will remain thin. Temperature at 2000m: -4 to 0 degrees; at 3000m: -10 to -6 degrees. Predominantly light to moderate-strength northerly-to-westerly winds at high altitudes.

Avalanche danger not expected to change significantly until Wednesday, due to high-pressure weather conditions. But as the cold front hits Wednesday night, danger will increase.