Werdenfels Alps

As the snowpack becomes wetter, avalanche danger increases

As the snowpack becomes wetter, avalanche danger increases

Avalanche danger is low in the morning, moderate in the afternoon. Main problem: wet snow. Wet-snow avalanches can trigger naturally on very steep smooth grass-covered slopes which have not yet discharged. Danger zones are rare, releases small. Avoid zones below glide cracks. As temperatures rise, wet loose-snow slides can be expected in extremely steep terrain, these can also be triggered by 1 person in steep terrain. Beware the dangers of being swept along and forced to take a fall.

Nocturnal longwave outgoing radiation will create a melt-freeze crust, in places capable of bearing loads. The surfaces become moist during the daytime, esp. in wind-protected zones. Melt-freeze crusts soften. Wherever there is moisture inside the snowpack it forfeits more firmness, it is often wet at ground level. Gliding movements are possible. On south-facing slopes below 1500 m there is almost no snow on the ground.

Next week will begin with variably cloudy weather. Avalanche danger levels are not expected to change significantly.