Southern Cairngorms

SC 26.01.24 New unstable accumulations will develop on N through E to SE aspects above 900m. Avalanche hazard Low.

SC 26.01.24 New unstable accumulations will develop on N through E to SE aspects above 900m. Avalanche hazard Low.

Forecast Snow Stability: The majority of the snowpack will be firm and well bonded. New unstable accumulations will develop in wind sheltered terrain on North through East to South-East aspects above 900 metres. Where accumulations achieve depth over older snow-ice they will only be moderately bonded. Steep terrain such as gully tops and scarp slopes will be particularly affected. Cornices will require care. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Overnight, mild with rain at all levels. Becoming cooler by dawn with the freezing level lowering to 500 metres, before lifting to 800 metres late afternoon. Precipitation expected to turn to snow in the early hours, moderate falls possible. Gale force winds, West-North-West backing to the South-West during snowfall. Observed Weather Influences: The freezing level was around the summits for most of the period. There was little new snow overnight with precipitation mostly falling as rain. Strong Southerlies throughout the morning, easing early afternoon. ObservedSnowStability: The snowpack is generally well bonded. Some locations are icy. Snow cover is good above 900 metres on North through East to South aspects and on higher plateau areas. Below 900 metres snow cover is limited to burn lines and other sheltered features. The avalanche hazard is Low.