Border Pennine Alps

Individual weak layers exist in the snowpack. In addition the more recent wind slabs must be taken into account.

Individual weak layers exist in the snowpack. In addition the more recent wind slabs must be taken into account.

Avalanches can in isolated cases be released in the old snowpack and reach medium size in particular on very steep shady slopes, caution is to be exercised in steep rocky terrain, as well as on steep, little used shady slopes. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised as well in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls.

High altitudes and the high Alpine regions: As a consequence of mild temperatures, low relative humidity and the light wind, the snow drift accumulations stabilised during the last few days. In shady places that are protected from the wind: Towards its surface, the snowpack is fairly homogeneous; its surface consists of faceted crystals. Very steep sunny slopes: Towards its surface, the snowpack is largely stable and its surface has a melt-freeze crust that is strong in many cases. Towards its base, the snowpack is faceted and weak. This applies in particular on steep east, north and northwest facing slopes,.