Deferegger Alps East

The fresh snow and in particular the sometimes large wind slabs represent the main danger.

The fresh snow and in particular the sometimes large wind slabs represent the main danger.

The fresh wind slabs can be released easily or naturally in all aspects, especially in areas close to the tree line and above the tree line. Caution is to be exercised in particular at the base of rock walls, as well as in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. The fresh wind slabs can especially at their margins be released very easily. Avalanches can also penetrate deep layers and reach large size in isolated cases. In the regions neighbouring those that are subject to danger level 4 (high) the avalanche prone locations are more prevalent and larger. Individual loose snow avalanches are possible in the afternoon, in the event of prolonged bright spells especially on extremely steep slopes. A certain danger of gliding avalanches exists, especially on steep east, south and west facing slopes below approximately 2400 m in the regions exposed to heavier precipitation. Areas with glide cracks are to be avoided as far as possible. The conditions are sometimes critical for backcountry touring and other off-piste activities outside marked and open pistes.

Over a wide area 15 to 30 cm of snow, and up to 50 cm in some localities, has fallen above approximately 1500 m. The violent wind will transport the new snow and, in some cases, old snow as well. Snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. The fresh wind slabs are lying on soft layers at high altitudes and in high Alpine regions. Towards its base, the snowpack is faceted. The snowpack will be generally subject to considerable local variations. Low and intermediate altitudes: Towards its base, the snowpack is moist.

Slight increase in danger of moist and wet avalanches as a consequence of warming during the day and solar radiation, in particular on steep sunny slopes. Slight decrease in danger of dry avalanches. Fresh wind slabs are to be evaluated critically. Gliding avalanches require caution.