North and center of Aran

Fresh wind slabs as the day progresses. Gliding avalanches are possible in isolated cases.

Fresh wind slabs as the day progresses. Gliding avalanches are possible in isolated cases.

The sometimes strong wind will transport the loosely bonded old snow. The fresh wind slabs will form in particular adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls in all aspects and generally at high altitudes. They are bonding poorly with the old snowpack in particular on shady slopes. The avalanches are only shallow but can be released easily in some cases even by a single winter sport participant. Also extremely steep shady slopes in places that are protected from the wind: A certain danger of dry snow slides exists. In addition a latent danger of gliding avalanches exists. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for meticulous route selection. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised as well in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls. In particular sunny slopes as well as adjacent to ridgelines: There is a danger of falling on the hard snow surface.

Several gliding avalanches and moist snow slides have been released in the last few days. As the temperature drops hardly any more moist snow slides and avalanches are possible. Above the tree line there are 50 to 70 cm of snow, and even more in some localities. At intermediate and high altitudes snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. Wind-protected shady slopes: The snowpack is faceted and weak. Sunny slopes: The snowpack is well consolidated and its surface has a melt-freeze crust.

Some snow will fall on Tuesday. The moderate wind will transport the new snow and, in some cases, old snow as well. In particular adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls dangerous wind slabs will form.