Hochschwab Mountains

Snowdrift problem on W/S facing slopes

Snowdrift problem on W/S facing slopes

Moderate avalanche danger prevails above the treeline. Avalanche prone locations occur on west and south-facing slopes. Slab avalanches can be triggered by large additional loading. Particularly Ridgeline slopes, protuberances and entries into gullies and bowls require caution. In addition, shady zones at high altitude can trigger older snowdrift accumulations as slabs. Freshly generated cornices are unstable.On sunny slopes, wet loose-snow (size 2) avalanches can trigger in steep rough and rocky terrain during the daytime.

Snowdrifts have been deposited atop melt-freeze encrusted old snow or older snowdrift masses. In transitions to the old snow, a weak layer often was generated (faceted crystals). This weak layer has been evident in the Eisenerz Alps and in Hochschwab.In Niedere Tauern the snowdrifts (30-40 cm) lie atop a compact old snowpack. On shady slopes, faceted crystals weaken the structuring.In shady forest lanes the snow is flaky and unbonded. On sunny slopes and at lower altitude the fundament is largely stable.

High-pressure front conditions on Tuesday will bring brilliant sunshine. The air is extremely dry. The NE winds are light. From the west, temperatures are starting to rise. At 2000m at midday, -8 to -5 degrees.Wednesday: Ash Wednesday will bring sunshine initially. In the afternoon, high and intermediate altitude clouds will move in from the west.

The snowdrift problem is beginning to lose its edge.