Border Pennine Alps

New snow and wind slabs represent the main danger, especially along the border with Switzerland.

New snow and wind slabs represent the main danger, especially along the border with Switzerland.

15 to 25 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen since yesterday above approximately 1800 m. In the last few days sometimes avalanche prone wind slabs formed in all aspects. These must be evaluated with care and prudence above approximately 2400 m. Even single backcountry tourers can release avalanches in some places, including medium-sized ones. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible in isolated cases. Additionally avalanches can also penetrate down to the ground and reach quite a large size in the regions exposed to heavier precipitation. The avalanche prone locations are to be found on steep slopes and adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls. The fresh and older wind slabs are to be avoided.

As a consequence of highly fluctuating temperatures, snowfall and the occasionally storm force westerly wind, the snowpack could not consolidate. The fresh and somewhat older wind slabs are poorly bonded with the old snowpack in particular on northwest to east to south facing aspects. Snow depths vary greatly at high altitudes and in high Alpine regions, depending on the infuence of the wind. Below the tree line only a little snow is lying.

As a consequence of warming, the likelihood of dry and moist avalanches being released will increase a little. In the event of rain this applies in particular.