Allgäu Alps Central

Snowdrifts on high-altitude Allgäu slopes need to be evaluated with caution. Gliding snow problem persists.

Snowdrifts on high-altitude Allgäu slopes need to be evaluated with caution. Gliding snow problem persists.

Avalanche danger aove 2000 m is considerable, below that altitude danger is moderate. Main problem: snowdrift accumulations. Danger zones occur in steep ridgeline terrain on N/E facing slopes, behind discontinuities in the terrain and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls, releases small-to-medium sized. Slabs can be triggered by 1 person, e.g. a skier. Wet snow is also problematic. In extremely steep terrain, small loose-snow avalanches can trigger naturally. In addition, on steep slopes which have not yet discharged, glide-snow avalanches can release naturally over smooth ground, releases mostly small.

There was fresh snow on the Allgäu Main Ridge on Thursday (20 cm) which will be transported by strong winds under clear nighttime skies. Inside the drifts, soft layers can be lodged. The snowpack moistens during the day due to sun and mild temperatures, losing its bonding, possibly releasing as loose-snow. The old snowpack is compact and stable, thoroughly moist up to high altitudes, reinforcing gliding movements over smooth ground.

Swiftly receding danger of slab avalanches and change to springtime conditions through daytime rise in avalanche danger.