Avalanche forecast

Fresh and blanketed snowdrifts are main danger

Fresh and blanketed snowdrifts are main danger

Fresh and frequently covered snowdrifts are prone to triggering. Avalanche prone locations are found especially in steep ridgeline terrain and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. Thus, snowdrift accumulations should be avoided at high altitude. Small-to-medium slabs can be triggered also in the old snow. Acdtivities in outlying terrain require experience in assessing avalanche danger on-site and a defensive route selection.

By early morning there was 5-10 cm of fresh snow registered, 15 cm from place to place. New snow and loose old snow have been transported far-reachingly by strong-to-stormy winds. Exposed zones are often windblown, bullies and bowls filled to the brim with drifts. New snow and freshly-generated drifts often cover older snowdrift accumulations of recent days or soft layers. In some places, grauple and surface hoar have been covered. Bonding to this (as well as in deeper layers) worsens with altitude. The old snowpack is generally well consolidated and stable. In some places, faceted crystals at mid-level in the snowpack are triggerable.

Residual clouds and fog will gradually recede and it will turn sunny everywhere. Temperatures will rise slightly during the day. At 2000 m: -7 degrees. Brisk to strong E/NE winds at high altitude.

Wednesday will be very sunny and somewhat warmer. Avalanche danger will decrease. Nevertheless, snowdrift accumulations at high altitudes will remain prone to triggering.