Karawanks West

Weak layers in the old snowpack necessitate caution.

Weak layers in the old snowpack necessitate caution.

Avalanches can in some cases be released by a single winter sport participant. They can penetrate down to the ground, especially in starting zones that have retained the snow thus far. Caution is to be exercised on steep west, north and east facing slopes above approximately 1800 m. In some cases avalanches are medium-sized. The number and size of avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. They are difficult to recognise. In addition the fresh wind slabs adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls are prone to triggering in some cases.

Some snow will fall in some regions. The moderate wind will transport the snow. The fresh wind slabs will be deposited on the unfavourable surface of an old snowpack at elevated altitudes. Above approximately 1800 m: The snowpack will be unfavourable at elevated altitudes. Distinct weak layers exist in the old snowpack. This applies in particular on northwest, north and east facing slopes. Below approximately 1800 m as well as steep sunny slopes: The snowpack is fairly homogeneous and its surface has a crust that is barely capable of bearing a load.

Avalanches can as before be released by a single winter sport participant.