Northern Cairngorms

NC for 19.3: Localised unstable windslab on NW to NE aspects above 1000 metres. Unstable cornices. Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

NC for 19.3: Localised unstable windslab on NW to NE aspects above 1000 metres. Unstable cornices. Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

Forecast Snow Stability: The most recent windslab accumulations will begin to consolidate. Localised instabilities will remain within deeper deposits on North-West to North-Easterly aspects above 1000 metres. The greatest instability will be in steep and convex terrain, especially below coire rims, gully exits and crag aprons. Cornices will be unstable especially on sun exposed slopes. Elsewhere the snowpack will be firm well bonded and stable. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Dry throughout the forecast period with extended periods of sunshine during the day. Strong to gale force Southerly winds overnight, becoming South-South-East during the day, increasing in strength through the afternoon. The freezing level will be just above the summits. Observed Weather Influences: A dry day with strong South-Westerly winds. The freezing level rose to 1000 metres by midday. ObservedSnowStability: Accumulations of unstable windslab continued to develop on Northerly to Easterly aspects above 950 metres. The greatest instability is within steep wind sheltered terrain; below coire rims, convexities, gully exits and crag aprons. Cornices overhang these aspects. Debris from a small avalanche was noted below the coire rim of a North facing slope at 1100 metres. Elsewhere the the snowpack is firm and stable. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.