Rhemes Valley

Weak layers in the old snowpack are treacherous.

Weak layers in the old snowpack are treacherous.

Even single winter sport participants can release avalanches. In particular on very steep north, northeast and east facing slopes the avalanches can be released in the weakly bonded old snow and reach large size in isolated cases. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible in isolated cases. Individual medium-sized natural avalanches are possible. In addition the fresh wind slabs are prone to triggering in some cases still. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger.

Since yesterday on very steep sunny slopes numerous small and medium-sized avalanches were reported. The old snowpack remains weakly bonded on shady slopes. The sometimes storm force wind has transported the new snow significantly, especially adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas above approximately 2300 m. Wind slabs are to be found also areas not adjacent to ridgelines. The high temperatures gave rise to moistening of the snowpack in all regions below approximately 2800 m. As a consequence of falling temperatures a crust will form on the surface on Saturday. The new snow has settled to a large extent on sunny slopes.

Little snow will fall. The avalanche danger will persist.