Werdenfels Alps

Increasing sink-in depths during the day are bellwethers of wet-snow avalanche danger

Increasing sink-in depths during the day are bellwethers of wet-snow avalanche danger

Avalanche danger increases from low to moderate during the daytime. Main problem: wet-snow. Isolated danger zones occur particularly on sunny, focky steep slopes. In the course of the day, isolated small wet loose-snow avalanches can trigger naturally. On steep grass-covered slopes and in sparsely wooded areas, isolated glide-snow avalanches are possible on smooth ground which can reach larger size.

In early morning the snowpack has a crust which is capable of bearing loads, is by and large stable, before the springlike temperatures on sunny slopes transform it to firn snow. Thereafter, the snowpack forfeits its firmness and its bonding. At ground level it is already wet up to high altitudes, which enhances gliding movement of the entire snowpack. Snow depths are below average for this juncture of the season, on sunny slopes there is no snow on the ground up to 1400 m.

Tomorrow will be mild, typical springtime conditions will reign, with a slight daytime rise in avalanche danger. Backcountry tours should begin early, end early.