Lower Tauern South

Snowdrift problem above timberline

Snowdrift problem above timberline

Above 1800 m, danger of avalanches is CONSIDERABLE, below that altitude MODERATE. In very steep areas (including forests) naturally triggered small-to-medium wet loose-snow avalanches and glide-snow avalanches are possible. Above the timberline there is also the danger of slab avalanches triggering. Danger zones focus on gullies in all aspects and wind-loaded steep slopes (fresh drifts being deposited mostly in E/S aspects). Triggering a small-to-medium sized slab avalanche is possible even be minimum additional loading. At high altitudes, slab avalanches can in isolated cases grow to large size.

The snowpack is being moistened superficially, forfeits its firmness thereby. At low altitudes it is already thoroughly wet and is gliding over smooth ground. Above the timberline there are snowdrift accumulations in gullies and bowls, in exposed terrain there are mostly wind-crusts. In high-altitude wind-protected zones, loose old snow is a potential weak layer for the bonded snowfall which is deposited on top of it. In high alpine regions, particularly on shady slopes above 2200 m, soft layers of faceted crystals are weakening the snowpack fundament.

On Monday, visibility will be limited by clouds, fog, rain and snow. The snowfall level will ascend during the daytime, briefly reaching nearly 2000 m. At high altitudes, 10-20 cm of new snow is anticipated. At 2000 m, 0 degree, at 3000 m -5 degrees. The strong NW winds will ease during the day, but at high altitudes still be blowing at 40-60 km/hr. On Tuesday it will frequently be sunny. At low altitudes, fogbanks are expected. Brisk NW winds at high altitude.

Below the timberline, avalanche danger is diminishing. At high altitudes, CONSIDERABLE danger due to snowdrifts also on Tuesday.