Pontey-Clavalité

Plenty of new snow, wind-slab snow and rising temperatures below 2,700 metres; avalanche danger remains.

Plenty of new snow, wind-slab snow and rising temperatures below 2,700 metres; avalanche danger remains.

The large quantity of fresh snow as well as the wind slabs are in some cases still prone to triggering. Sunshine and high temperatures will give rise as the day progresses to rapid moistening of the snowpack in particular on sunny slopes below approximately 2700 m. As the day progresses the likelihood of moist and wet avalanches being released will increase in particular on very steep sunny slopes. In particular here natural avalanches, capable of reaching low altitudes, must be expected. Especially adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls: Large quantities of fresh snow and the wind-drifted snow can be released by a single winter sport participant. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible in isolated cases. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for great caution and restraint.

Over a wide area 50 to 70 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, fell on Sunday above approximately 1500 m. The weather conditions fostered a settling of the snowpack. Especially adjacent to ridgelines in all aspects: The sometimes strong wind has transported the new snow. Here snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. The weather conditions will give rise to rapid moistening of the snowpack in particular on steep sunny slopes. Especially steep shady slopes above the tree line: Weak layers exist in the top section of the snowpack here.

The danger of moist and wet avalanches will decrease gradually.