Lower Tauern South

Low reserves of cold, small foehn-induced snowdrifts in high alpine regions

Low reserves of cold, small foehn-induced snowdrifts in high alpine regions

Avalanche danger is MODERATE. In sun-drenched steep terrain small-to-medium wet loose-snow avalanches are possible in some spots, either naturally or skier-caused. Also glide-snow avalanches (medium to large) are possible in steep grassy terrain. Isolated shallow, easily triggered snowdrift patches which enhance the risks of falling. Dange zones in gullies and very setreep, shady bowls (near to and distant from ridgelines).

The snowpack is breakably encrusted and softens up with with swiftness where the foehn has no impact. On steep sunny slopes the snowpack loses superficial firmness. On high alpine shady slopes, shallow snowdrifts often were deposited atop an unfavorable snowpack (loose old snow, possibly surface hoar). On very steep grassy slopes the snowpack is gliding in entirety over the smooth ground. Beneath superficial melt-freeze crusts there are soft, faceted layers (persistent weak layer) which are currently unlikely to trigger.

On Saturday night, clear skies, although foehn wind will hamper the cooling. During the daytime on Sunday, unimpaired sunshine, strong southerly winds (30-50 km/hr). At 2000 m: -8 to -6 degrees; at 3000 m: -9 degrees. On Monday following a night of clear skies, unimpaired sunshine, top visibility, extremely dry air. Initially, winds will be moderate to strong from the south, later on they will slacken off and shift to northeasterly. At 2000 m: -2 to 0 degrees; at 3000 m: -7 degrees

Due to very dry air, delayed loss of firmness and only a slight daytime danger cycle on Monday. Small snowdrift problem in high alpine regions in the foehn lanes.