Ankogel-Hochalm Group

Wind slabs are to be evaluated critically.

Wind slabs are to be evaluated critically.

The somewhat older wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on west to north to east facing aspects above approximately 2000 m. Individual avalanche prone locations are to be found also on steep south facing slopes above approximately 2400 m. Caution is to be exercised in particular in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. In particular in shady places that are protected from the wind avalanches can release the weakly bonded old snow as well and reach medium size. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack can indicate the danger. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised as well in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls.

The wind slabs are easy for the trained eye to recognise but prone to triggering. They are bonding only slowly with the old snowpack. The old snowpack consists of faceted crystals. Steep south facing slopes: As a consequence of mild temperatures and solar radiation a crust formed on the surface. Only a small amount of snow is lying for the time of year in all altitude zones. The snowpack will be generally subject to considerable local variations.

Wind slabs are to be avoided.