Valsavaranche

Above approximately 2200 m the avalanche prone locations are more prevalent and the danger is greater. Not yet all starting zones have released the snow entirely. Avalanches capable of reaching the valley bottom are still to be expected.

Above approximately 2200 m the avalanche prone locations are more prevalent and the danger is greater. Not yet all starting zones have released the snow entirely. Avalanches capable of reaching the valley bottom are still to be expected.

As a consequence of new snow and a strong wind from westerly directions, sometimes large wind slabs formed since Friday. The sometimes deep wind slabs of the last two days can be released easily or naturally in particular on steep northwest, east and southwest facing slopes above approximately 2500 m. Caution is to be exercised in particular in steep starting zones that have retained the snow thus far. In some places avalanches can also penetrate deep layers. The fresh wind slabs are to be assessed with care and prudence. Backcountry touring calls for defensive route selection. Caution is to be exercised in particular at transitions from a shallow to a deep snowpack, when entering gullies and bowls for example. The rain gave rise to significant moistening of the snowpack in all aspects below approximately 2300 m. Here small and medium-sized moist and wet avalanches are possible.

30 to 60 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, fell in the last two days above approximately 2500 m. As a consequence of high temperatures, snowfall and the moderate to strong westerly wind, a precarious avalanche situation developed. In particular east, north and west facing slopes: Weak layers exist in the snowpack above the tree line. Reports filed by observers and stability tests confirm the unfavourable bonding of the snowpack. The snowpack is wet. This applies in particular below the tree line. Below approximately 2000 m only a little snow is lying. Numerous medium-sized and, in isolated cases, large moist and wet avalanches have been released as a consequence of the rain. This applies in particular below approximately 2500 m. Several medium-sized slab avalanches have been released as a consequence of new snow and strong wind. This applies in particular on very steep slopes above approximately 2500 m.

The avalanche danger will decrease gradually.