Chiemgau Alps East

Snowpack is settling

Snowpack is settling

Avalanche danger above 1500 m is moderate, below that altitude danger is low. Main problem: fresh fallen snow from the last few days, which can trigger naturally as a loose-snow avalanche, esp. on very steep slopes in all aspects, or be triggered by 1 skier. Wind-bonded snow can be triggered by 1 person. Danger zones are difficult to recognize. Loose-snow avalanches are usually small, slab avalanches can be medium-sized.

In addition, gliding snow can be problematic. On very steep grass-covered slopes in all aspects, glide-snow avalanches can releases naturally, esp. where the slopes were bare of snow before the precipitation, medium sized releases possible. Glide cracks are signals of imminent danger.

Near-surface snow is moist due to diffuse light and direct radiation, it can release as a loose-snow avalanche. Due to wind from varying directions, snowdrifts have been generated which are mostly blanketed by loose snow. Especially on high-altitude shady slopes they are prone to triggering. Due to the warm ground the lower part of the snowpack is wet, reinforcing movement of the whole snowpack over smooth ground. The snow settles quickly and weak layers consolidate increasingly.

It will remain wintery, due to continuing snow showers. Avalanche danger levels are not expected to change significantly.