Allgäu Alps Central

At high altitude, storm transports the snow widespread. More rain weakens the snowpack at intermediate altitudes.

At high altitude, storm transports the snow widespread. More rain weakens the snowpack at intermediate altitudes.

Avalanche danger is considerable. At higher altitudes the main problem stems from snowdrifts. Avalanche prone locations are found adjacent to and distant from ridgelines on many steep slopes in all aspects, behind terrain protuberances as well as in gullies and bowls filled with snowdrift deposits. Medium-sized to large slab avalanches can be triggered by minimum additional loading of a single skier. They can in particular grow to large size if avalanches fracture down to more deeply embedded layers. Weak intermediate layers in the old snow are typically found in the north sector and can in addition still be triggered in places with little snow such as the entry into gullies. Size and frequency of avalanche prone locations increase with ascending altitude. Wet loose snow and slab avalanches are possible in steep rocky terrain due to rain and mild temperatures. Many glide snow avalanches can also be expected on smooth steep grass-covered slopes. Avalanches can be medium-sized to large-sized and can constitute a risk to exposed transportation routes. Avoid areas below glide cracks!

Stormy to gale-strength wind generates many extensive snowdrift accumulations that are prone to triggering. Weak layers are embedded in the packed snowdrifts bordering the old snowpack surface. Embedded in the old snow are locally also faceted crystals underneath a melt-freeze crust. The weak layer becomes more pronounced with ascending altitude and in some places it is dangerously near the upper surface. The danger is undetectable above the snowpack. Rain and mild temperatures are thoroughly moistening the snowpack below 2000m making it forfeit its firmness. It is often also wet down to the ground which promotes gliding of the snow masses.

The danger of wet snow avalanches will decline slightly by Friday, when precipitations abate.