Creag Meagaidh

CM for 22/01. Overnight increased instability abv 900m, N to E asp then new windslab NE to E asp abv 700m Cornices! Considerable Haz

CM for 22/01. Overnight increased instability abv 900m, N to E asp then new windslab NE to E asp abv 700m Cornices! Considerable Haz

Forecast Snow Stability: This evening, there will be a period of high instability within the existing snowpack mainly on steep North to East aspects above 900 metres. Cornices will be prone to collapse during this time. The older snowpack will then consolidate and gain stability during the day, whilst fresh, poorly bonded windslab, will be deposited mainly on North-East and East aspects above 700 metres. South through to West aspects will remain scoured and stable. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Overnight heavy rain at all levels will turn to frequent snow showers above 500 metres during daylight hours. Severe storm force South-Westerly winds will ease slowly overnight, and remain gale force Westerly throughout the day. After being well above the summits, freezing levels will fall through the night and will remain around 600 metres during the day. Observed Weather Influences: There were light showers through the day, of snow initially, down to 600 metres, but then snow only on the higher tops as the day progressed. Freezing level was around 700 metres, but rose above summits in the afternoon. Winds were strong to very strong South-South-Westerly on the tops. ObservedSnowStability: The snowpack was consolidating, with a small amount of fresh windslab being deposited on North to East aspects above 900 metres. A period of instability is still expected today, in the afternoon due to rain and rising temperatures. below this altitude, on most aspects the snowpack was generally stable. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.