Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: Significant drifting with poorly bonded windslab becoming deeper and more widespread. Avalanches are likely on West through North to East aspects above 800 metres. On these aspects below 800 metres and above 450 metres, poorly bonded windslab will be more localised on steep banks and burn lines. Fragile cornices will continue to build. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Gale force Southerly winds will steadily increase to storm force South-South-Easterlies at dawn before easing a little through the afternoon. Heavy snowfall is expected, heaviest during the early morning, becoming lighter through the afternoon before turning to rain at all levels towards the end of the forecast period. The 600 metre freezing level will rise to summit level during the day. Observed Weather Influences: A dry day with strong to gale force South to South-South-Westerly winds. The freezing level was around 600 metres. ObservedSnowStability: With significant drifting, accumulations of unstable windslab have developed on North-West to North-East aspects above 450 metres. Cross loading has affected West and East aspects. These accumulations are most widespread above 900 metres. The greatest instability is on steep wind sheltered areas such as coire rims, gully exits, crag aprons and steep banks. Small avalanches were triggered on a North facing slope at 560 metres and 490 metres. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.