Rhemes Valley

Wind slabs represent the main danger.

Wind slabs represent the main danger.

As a consequence of new snow and a strong to storm force wind from northerly directions, extensive wind slabs formed in the last few days also in areas not adjacent to ridgelines. Along the border with France and along the border with Switzerland these avalanche prone locations are more prevalent. In some localities the wind slabs will increase in size moderately as the day progresses. They can be released, caution is to be exercised at transitions from a shallow to a deep snowpack, when entering gullies and bowls for example. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible in isolated cases. Dry avalanches can reach medium size. Backcountry touring calls for caution and restraint.

20 to 30 cm of snow, but less in some localities, fell on Thursday above approximately 2000 m. The wind was strong to storm force. The wind has transported the fresh and old snow significantly. Over a wide area snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. Towards its surface, the snowpack is soft and has a loosely bonded surface, in particular in places that are protected from the wind. Weak layers exist in the snowpack in particular on steep shady slopes.

The meteorological conditions will facilitate a gradual strengthening of the near-surface layers in particular on sunny slopes.