Middle Lys Valley

Wind-loaded slopes where weaknesses exist in the old snowpack are dangerous.

Wind-loaded slopes where weaknesses exist in the old snowpack are dangerous.

As a consequence of the strong northwesterly wind the avalanche prone locations will become more prevalent. Fresh and older wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant. In particular on extremely steep slopes and adjacent to ridgelines more medium-sized natural avalanches are possible in starting zones where no previous releases have taken place. Mostly these are shallow. In some places the avalanches can be triggered in the old snow and reach quite a large size. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible. Weak layers in the old snowpack necessitate caution. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack serve as an alarm sign.

10 to 30 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen since Tuesday above approximately 1800 m. 5 to 10 cm of snow fell on Saturday. The weather conditions gave rise to unfavourable bonding of the snowpack. The strong wind has transported the new snow significantly. Faceted weak layers exist in the old snowpack in particular on west, north and east facing slopes.

Wind and new snow. The meteorological conditions will cause a rise in the avalanche danger, in the regions exposed to heavier precipitation in particular.