Avalanche forecast

The avalanche conditions are to some extent unfavourable.

The avalanche conditions are to some extent unfavourable.

In particular on steep shady slopes avalanches can be triggered in deep layers of the snowpack and reach large size in isolated cases, in particular in little used terrain above approximately 2000 m. Avalanches can additionally be released in near-surface layers by small loads. The number and size of avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. The avalanche prone locations are barely recognisable, even to the trained eye. More small to medium-sized loose snow avalanches are possible. In the event of prolonged bright spells this applies on extremely steep slopes, in particular. Avalanches can in some cases release deeper layers of the snowpack. On steep grassy slopes and below approximately 2400 m small and, in isolated cases, medium-sized gliding avalanches are possible as a consequence of the new snow. This applies in the regions exposed to heavier precipitation in the south.

40 to 80 cm of snow has fallen since Wednesday. This applies at high altitudes and in high Alpine regions. Some snow will fall on Sunday. The wind will be moderate adjacent to ridgelines. The weather effects will facilitate a gradual stabilisation of the near-surface layers. Faceted weak layers exist deeper in the old snowpack in particular on steep shady slopes. The old snowpack will be moist at low and intermediate altitudes.

As a consequence of a moderate to strong wind, sometimes avalanche prone wind slabs will form on Monday. Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow are to be critically assessed.