Chiemgau Alps East

Weak intermediate layers embedded in snowpack still prone to triggering at higher altitudes

Weak intermediate layers embedded in snowpack still prone to triggering at higher altitudes

Avalanche danger above the timberline is moderate; below the timberline danger is low. The main problem stems from near-surface snow layers in the old snowpack. In particular by large additional loading medium-sized slab avalanches can release on weak intermediate layers or on an ice crust embedded in the snow deposited on the weekend. Avalanche prone locations are found in steep ridgeline terrain in N/E/SE aspects as well as in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. In addition, a snowdrift problem emerges. Strong westerly winds that are getting up are increasingly generating small snowdrift accumulations above the timberline which are prone to triggering. The perils of being forced to take a fall in steep terrain exceed those of being buried in snow masses.

The snow of the weekend has settled considerably. On sunny slopes it is becoming superficially moist down to intermediate altitudes. During the night, a breakable melt-freeze crust forms at the snowpack surface. At higher altitudes, the surface consists predominantly of breakable wind and melt-freeze crusts. In north-facing terrain there is settled powder. The potential that the westerly winds that are getting up will transport the snow is generally low. Intermediate layers that are prone to triggering are still found in the snowpack near the surface and in blanketed over old packed snowdrift masses.

New snow and storm-strength winds are forecast for Friday night. Avalanche danger levels will then increase.