Monregalese Valleys

Wind slabs in the high Alpine regions.

Wind slabs in the high Alpine regions.

As a consequence of a gathering strong wind from westerly directions, clearly visible wind slabs will form at elevated altitudes. Wind slabs can be released, even by a single winter sport participant, especially on steep shady slopes in high Alpine regions, as well as on wind-loaded slopes. Caution is to be exercised at transitions into gullies and bowls. In isolated cases avalanches can also be triggered in the old snowpack and reach large size. As a consequence of falling temperatures, the activity of moist and wet avalanches will decrease.

In the last few days hard wind slabs formed over a wide area. The sometimes storm force wind will transport the loosely bonded old snow. In the vicinity of peaks snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. As a consequence of a moderate wind from northwesterly directions, mostly small wind slabs will form. Low and intermediate altitudes: As a consequence of falling temperatures and the strong westerly wind, a crust will form on the surface during the night. High altitudes and the high Alpine regions: Weak layers exist in the old snowpack in particular on steep northwest, north and northeast facing slopes.