Wölz Tauern South

Naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches in steep terrain and some snowdrifts on east-facing slopes

Naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches in steep terrain and some snowdrifts on east-facing slopes

Above the treeline moderate avalanche danger, below that altitude danger is low. Isolated danger zones occur from trigger-prone snowdrift accumulations on extended east-facing slopes. In addition, on steep slopes in all aspects naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches reaching medium-size can trigger. Open glide cracks are indicators of imminent danger.

The snowpack base is stable by and large, there is a persistent weak layer on some high-altitude slopes. Starting on Monday in the western sector or the Northern Alps and northern flank of the Niedere Tauern, fresh snow up to 20 cm, transported by brisk NW winds in eastern and southern aspects. Bonding generally good. On sunny slopes the snowpack is isotherm and moist, on shady slopes there are still reserves of cold. In steep terrain on smooth ground the snowpack glides downhill. An area-wide snowpack exists only above the treeline.

On Tuesday, slightly colder, variable in the northern regions, peaks of the Northern Alps often veiled in cloud, light snowfall, snowfall dropping from 1400 down to 1100 m. South of the Main Alpine Ridge only scattered clouds, it will remain dry. At 2000 m: -3 to -5 degrees. Brisk winds, in the northeastern ranges also at strong velocity from NW directions.

On Wednesday, milder, winds shifting to westerly, mostly dry and sunny conditions. Fresh snowdrifts will settle and be less likely to trigger, the glide-snow problem will persist.