Middle Lys Valley

Blowing snow and old snow require attention.

Blowing snow and old snow require attention.

As a consequence of a moderate southeasterly wind, wind slabs formed in the last few days. As a consequence of a moderate to strong wind from northerly directions, avalanche prone wind slabs will form in the course of the day in gullies and bowls and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. The avalanche prone locations are to be found adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. In the areas closest to the French borders and at the head of the valleys: Here the avalanche prone locations are more prevalent. Even single winter sport participants can release avalanches in some places. They can be triggered in the faceted old snow and reach medium size. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack are a clear indication of a weakly bonded snowpack. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger.

Several medium-sized dry slab avalanches have been released by people in the last few days, in particular along the border with France. Weak layers exist in the old snowpack on shady slopes. At intermediate and high altitudes snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. The numerous rocks hidden by the recent snow are the main danger.

The weather will be sunny. The wind slabs are bonding only slowly with the old snowpack.