Fischbach Alps West, Graz Highlands

Generally low danger but caution urged towards naturally triggered wet-snow, glide-snow avalanches

Generally low danger but caution urged towards naturally triggered wet-snow, glide-snow avalanches

Avalanche danger is generally low, but pay close heed to small, naturally triggered wet-snow and glide-snow slides esp on south-facing slopes during the course of the day. Danger zones occur on very steep grass-covered slopes, hillsides and in forest clearances. Open glide cracks are indicators of danger, circumvent zones below them.

Very irregular snow distribution. Whereas NW-facing slopes and exposed zones are often bare of snow, grass-covered wind-loaded slopes and gullies are filled to the brim. The snowpack is compact, without marked weak layers. The snowpack below 2000 m is nearly isotherm, the ground is often wet. The snowpack is gliding downhill over smooth ground. The surface at high altitudes is frozen, capable of bearing loads, but softens during the course of the day, at least on sunny slopes.

On Thursday, lots of sunshine, nearly cloudless skies. In the afternoon some high altitude clouds will move in from the west. Winds will be light to moderate from westerly directions. At 2000 m: +3 degrees, much too warm for this juncture of the season.

Also on Friday, sunny and mild. Danger of glide-snow and wet-snow avalanches will persist, but slacken off in intensity.