Southern Cairngorms

SC 20.01.23 Unstable windslab on NE to S aspects above 900m. Lessor amounts on SW, W and lower levels. Avalanche hazard Considerable

SC 20.01.23 Unstable windslab on NE to S aspects above 900m. Lessor amounts on SW, W and lower levels. Avalanche hazard Considerable

Forecast Snow Stability: Poorly bonded windslab will be present mostly on East to South aspects above 900 metres. Steep sheltered terrain such as scarp slopes, corrie rims and gully tops will be most affected. Localised accumulations of moderately bonded snow will also be found on North-East and South-West aspects with isolated areas at lower levels. Older snow will remain firm and icy, exposed ridges will be scoured. Newly developed cornices will remain a hazard. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Very light snowfall overnight, dry thereafter. The freezing level is expected to remain below 600 metres throughout this period. Winds, strong North-North-Westerly overnight, becoming light and variable later afternoon. Observed Weather Influences: A cold day with snow showers, heavy at times but clearing in the afternoon. Winds were strong from the West-North-West. ObservedSnowStability: Deeper accumulations of poorly bonded windslab is found in wind sheltered locations mostly on East to South aspects above 900 metres. Unstable cornices are also present above these slopes. Localised moderately bonded snow is also found on both North-East and South-West aspects and at lower levels in steep lee locations. Exposed terrain is wind scoured and stable. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.