Ampezzo Dolomites

At elevated altitudes a sometimes precarious avalanche situation will prevail.

At elevated altitudes a sometimes precarious avalanche situation will prevail.

The fresh snow as well as the sometimes large wind slabs formed during the snowfall can be released easily, or, in isolated cases naturally in all aspects above the tree line. Avalanche prone locations are to be found in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. The fresh wind slabs are covered with new snow in some cases and therefore difficult to recognise. In all aspects avalanches can be triggered in the new snow and wind slab layers and reach medium size in isolated cases. In addition some small to medium-sized loose snow avalanches are to be expected. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for extensive experience in the assessment of avalanche danger and restraint.

High altitudes and the high Alpine regions: Over a wide area 40 to 60 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen above approximately 2000 m. As a consequence of a sometimes strong wind from variable directions, brittle wind slabs will form in all aspects.

Restraint is advisable on this first sunny day. Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.