Reisseck Group

Wind slabs require caution.

Wind slabs require caution.

The fresh and older wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on southwest to north to southeast facing aspects above approximately 1800 m. Caution is to be exercised in particular at the base of rock walls and behind abrupt changes in the terrain, as well as in gullies and bowls. In isolated cases avalanches are medium-sized. In the regions neighbouring those that are subject to danger level 3 (considerable) the prevalence and size of the avalanche prone locations will increase. As a consequence of warming during the day and solar radiation loose snow avalanches are to be expected. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised in particular in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls.

Up to 20 cm of snow fell in the last few days. The strong wind has transported the new snow significantly. In some cases the various wind slabs have bonded poorly with each other and the old snowpack. The old snowpack consists of faceted crystals. The snowpack will be generally subject to considerable local variations. Only a small amount of snow is lying for the time of year in all altitude zones.

Wind slabs are to be evaluated with care and prudence. Gradual decrease in avalanche danger as a consequence of warming.