Border Pennine Alps

The fresh snow and the wind slabs that are forming at intermediate and high altitudes represent the main danger.

The fresh snow and the wind slabs that are forming at intermediate and high altitudes represent the main danger.

As a consequence of snowfall above approximately 800 m and the occasionally strong wind, fresh snow drift accumulations will form from late morning, in particular in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. The fresh snow and in particular the wind slabs that are forming in particular at intermediate and high altitudes can be released by a single winter sport participant in some cases. Additionally in some places avalanches can be released in the old snowpack and reach medium size, especially on very steep shady slopes in little used terrain. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised in particular in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls.

5 to 15 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, will fall from early morning. As a consequence of snowfall and the occasionally strong wind, fresh snow drift accumulations will form in the course of the day. The fresh wind slabs are lying on soft layers in particular on shady slopes above approximately 2000 m. High altitudes and the high Alpine regions: Snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. Towards its base, the snowpack is faceted and weak, in particular on steep east, north and northwest facing slopes,.