Tennen Mountains, Gosaukamm

Melt-freeze crusts, few danger zones, mostly above 2000 m

Melt-freeze crusts, few danger zones, mostly above 2000 m

Avalanche danger is low. Small, rare danger zones exist in very steep ridgeline terrain in NW/SE aspects above 2300 m. In those zones there are easily recognized snowdrift patches, small and thin, whose greatest risk lies in being forced to take a fall. In the same terrain (>2200m, same aspect) there are also rare avalanche prone locations where large additional loading can, if you’re unlucky, trigger a slab in the old snow. This applies mostly to zones where the snow is shallow.

Above 2000 m there has been 5 cm of new snow registered which is being transported by brisk westerly winds. Bonding of these small, thin snowdrift patches to the melt-freeze encrusted snow base deteriorates with ascending altitude because beneath the melt-freeze crust there is a soft, faceted layer, amounts are irrelevant. At low and intermediate altitudes the snowpack is encrusted as a result of rainfall, temperature changes and nocturnal cooling: all in all, stable.

On Tuesday, the day begins with adequate visibility, clouds will pass through and create diffuse light. In the afternoon cloud cover will intensify, in evening or night some light snowfall is possible (snowfall level 1700 m). Winds will be westerly, blowing at light strength (moderate strength in high alpine regions). Temperature at 2000 m: -1 degree; at 3000 m, -7 degrees. On Wednesday, variable visibility, some rain or snow in the morning (snowfall level 1400 m). Longer phases of pleasant weather during the day, with sunshine. Bris to strong W/NW winds, stronger in high alpine regions. Temperature at 2000 m: -1 degree, at 3000 m: -7 degrees.

As a result of new snow on Wednesday and Thursday, the situation will change. On Thursday, heavy rainfall extending far up: to about 2300 m! Thus, rising avalanche danger.