Northern Cairngorms

NC for 15.02 Unstable windslab developing during the day on N to E asp above 900m. Old snowpack firm and patchy. Aval Haz Moderate.

NC for 15.02 Unstable windslab developing during the day on N to E asp above 900m. Old snowpack firm and patchy. Aval Haz Moderate.

Forecast Snow Stability: The old snowpack, found mostly on North through East to South-East facing slopes above 950 meters will remain firm and well bonded. During the day, localised unstable windslab will develop, especially where it gains depth. Areas most affected will be wind sheltered locations, such as coire rims and gully tops on North to East aspects above 900 metres. Here also fragile cornices will develop. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Overnight, storm force Southerly winds. These will decrease and veer from mid morning to become gale force South-Westerlies, increasing in strengthen during the afternoon. The freezing level will be above the summits overnight. During the morning it will lower and be accompanied by snow, falling to around 800 metres. Observed Weather Influences: Early morning sunshine gave way to cloudier conditions during the afternoon. Winds were gale force South-Westerlies. The freezing level was above the highest summits. ObservedSnowStability: The snowpack re-froze overnight, with the surface softening slightly in the morning sunshine. It is firm, well bonded and generally stable in all locations. The greatest amounts can be found on the plateau and high coires, mainly on North through East to South-East aspects above 950 meters. Elsewhere snow cover is limited and patchy. The avalanche hazard is Low