Tuxer Alps West

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

Weak layers in the old snowpack can still be released in isolated cases by individual winter sport participants. Such avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on very steep west, north and east facing slopes above approximately 2400 m. Avalanches can reach medium size. Steep, glaciated terrain must also be critically assessed. The fresh and older wind slabs can be released in isolated cases on very steep shady slopes above approximately 2400 m, especially at their margins. Avalanche prone locations are to be found in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. Avalanches can reach medium size in isolated cases. The wind slabs are clearly recognisable to the trained eye. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised as well in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls.

Faceted weak layers exist in the bottom section of the old snowpack. This applies especially on west, north and east facing slopes at elevated altitudes, in particular in shady places that are protected from the wind. As a consequence of a moderate to strong southerly foehn wind, wind slabs formed since Monday in gullies and bowls and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. The wind slabs are lying on soft layers on shady slopes. They are in individual cases still prone to triggering. Steep sunny slopes: As a consequence of solar radiation a crust formed on the surface during the last few days.

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.