Rhemes Valley

Weak layers in the old snowpack are treacherous.

Weak layers in the old snowpack are treacherous.

Even single winter sport participants can release avalanches. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible in isolated cases. Some medium-sized and, in isolated cases, large natural avalanches are possible. The avalanches can be released in the weakly bonded old snow and reach large size. These avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on steep north, northeast and east facing slopes. In addition the fresh wind slabs are prone to triggering in some cases still. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger. Until the temperature falls small and medium-sized moist and wet avalanches are possible.

In the last few days on steep shady slopes many medium-sized and, in isolated cases, large avalanches were released. The sometimes storm force wind has transported the new snow significantly, especially adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas above approximately 2300 m. Wind slabs are to be found also areas not adjacent to ridgelines. The high temperatures gave rise to moistening of the snowpack in all regions below approximately 2800 m. The new snow has settled to a large extent on sunny slopes.

Decrease in danger of moist and wet avalanches as the temperature drops.