Chiemgau Alps East

Caution: Weak intermediate layers in steep wind-loaded gullies

Caution: Weak intermediate layers in steep wind-loaded gullies

Avalanche danger above 1700 m is moderate; below that altitude danger is low. The main problem stems from near-surface snow layers in the old snowpack. In particular with large additional loading medium-sized slab avalanches can release on weak intermediate layers or on an ice crust embedded in the snow deposited on the weekend. Avalanche prone locations are found in steep ridgeline terrain in N/E/SE aspects as well as in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. In addition, naturally releasing, more likely small moist loose snow avalanches can be expected due to daytime warming and solar radiation. Smaller glide snow avalanches can in particular release on steep grass-covered slopes with open glide cracks.

The snow of the weekend has settled considerably due to mild temperatures. On sunny slopes it has become superficially moist down to intermediate altitudes. During the night, a breakable melt-freeze crust forms at the snowpack surface. Solar radiation softens the snowpack superficially again which is associated with a loss in firmness. At higher altitudes the new snow has still insufficiently bonded with the encrusted old snowpack. Intermediate layers that are prone to triggering are found in the snowpack near the surface and in blanketed over packed snowdrift masses. At lower altitudes the snowpack is frequently moist at the transition to the ground which promotes gliding movements of the snowpack.

Stable high-pressure weather conditions are anticipated, this will further reduce avalanche danger levels in coming days.