Monregalese Valleys

The fresh snow and the wind slabs represent the main danger.

The fresh snow and the wind slabs represent the main danger.

The fresh wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant and reach large size. This applies in particular on steep west, north and east facing slopes in particular above the tree line, as well as in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. Natural avalanches are a clear indication of a weakly bonded snowpack. Ski touring and other off-piste activities, including snowshoe hiking, call for caution and restraint.

The wind has transported the new snow and, in some cases, old snow as well. As a consequence of heavy snowfall and the moderate to strong southwesterly wind, snow drift accumulations formed. The snowpack is soft; its surface consists of loosely bonded snow. This applies in shady places that are protected from the wind also at low and intermediate altitudes.