Fischbach Alps East, Wechsel

Snowdrift-problem and wet-snow problem: caution!

Tuesday will be gray in most regions, temperatures a tad higher, winds strong on the eastern rim of the Alps. No big change in avalanche danger levels.

Snowdrift-problem and wet-snow problem: caution!

Avalanche danger is moderate. The fresh snow was able to settle somewhat, but fresh snowdrift patches (NE wind-generated) at high altitudes can still be triggered by one sole skier, particularly on extended E/S facing slopes, behind abrupt drops in the terrain and in wind-loaded gullies. Due to higher temperatures, (diffuse) radiation and even some rainfall, small-to-medium sized naturally triggered avalanches are possible up to high altitudes. In addition, on steep grassy slopes, glide-snow slides can release naturally. Fresh, often large cornices are instable.

The fresh snow from this last week has settled somewhat. At high altitudes the snowdrift accumulations are still prone to triggering; moreover, soft layer in transition zones to the old snow and near existing melt-freeze crusts are pronounced weak layers for slab avalanches. As temperatures rise further and diffuse radiation has its effect, the snow on the surface will moisten and become heavy. The snowpack will lose its firmness. Bare spots have been covered with fresh snow, these snow masses can start to glide on grassy slopes where there is enough snow.

The pronounced low-pressure front over the Balkans is the determining factor of our weather conditions. In southern Styria, bright intervals are possible, in the northern regions skies will remain gray and the summits will often be veiled in fog, intermittent snowfall is possible. Later in the afternoon the snowfall can intensify from Hochschwab eastwards. The N/NE winds will be brisk, partricularly strong on the eastern rim of the Alps. At 2000 m: 0 degrees; at 1500 m: between +1 and +4 degrees.