Hochschwab Mountains

Moderate avalanche danger above timberline

Due to intensifying southerly winds, the snowdrift problem will move to north-facing slopes. Avalanche danger will remain moderate.

Moderate avalanche danger above timberline

In the northern and western regions, moderate danger prevails above the timberline. In some danger zones, slab avalanches can be triggered: particularly behind abrupt discontinuities in the terrain on east-facing and south-facing slopes and forested zones. Wind-loaded gullies and bowls need to be assessed with particular care. Due to the persistent weak layer there are some isolated, difficult-to-recognize danger zones on north-facing slopes.

The snowpack fundament is still shallow, often incohesive (not area-wide) but due to a sequence of melt freeze crusts and soft layers of faceted crystals rather instable (persistent weak layer). In some places, surface hoar has formed. Since Friday, 20-40 cm of fresh snow has been deposited on top of this, then transported by strong N/SW winds into gullies, bowls, forest edges and in general onto east-facing and south-facing slopes. Exposed zones are bare.

Tuesday will be sunny, with outstanding visibility and little wind. Towards eveningm high-altitude clouds will move in from the west and the SW winds will intensify somewhat. At 2000 m: -12 degrees in early morning, rising over the daytime hours. Wednesday will be sunny in the southern regions, a warm front will subsequently bring clouds, milder temperatures strong southerly winds and a few snowflakes.