North and center of Aran

Fresh wind slabs represent the main danger.

Fresh wind slabs represent the main danger.

The sometimes strong wind has transported the new snow and, in some cases, old snow as well. The fresh wind slabs have formed in particular in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. They are lying on weak layers in particular on shady slopes. The avalanche prone locations are to be found especially on north and west facing slopes. In the valleys bordering the Ribagorçana basin and the Pallaresa basin and at elevated altitudes these avalanche prone locations are more prevalent and the danger is greater. The avalanches are rather small but can be released easily by a single winter sport participant. In addition as the day progresses on southeast, south and southwest facing slopes, some small moist loose snow avalanches are to be expected. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for a certain restraint.

At the southern and eastern borders of Aran up to 5 cm of snow fell. During the night the wind will be moderate to strong adjacent to ridgelines. Above the tree line there are 50 to 70 cm of snow, and even more in some localities. At intermediate and high altitudes snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind.

The wind slabs are bonding only slowly with the old snowpack in particular on shady slopes.