Veľká Fatra

Watch out for wet snow especially on southern orientations.

Watch out for wet snow especially on southern orientations.

In the Fatras and Low Tatras there is a low avalanche danger - 1st degree from the 5-part international scale. Due to the night cooling, the snow cover at the highest altitudes will harden and freeze, which will have a positive effect on its stability. The weather on Thursday will be influenced by a blast of higher air pressure. Partly cloudy to clear weather is expected, which will bring a gradual melting of the snow cover by sunshine. The main avalanche problem is wet snow, especially in the S,SE,SW and W orientations. Wet snow avalanches or foundation avalanches of wet snow may occur, especially on slopes with visible gullies. Very steep couloirs with higher snow cover or significant avalanche paths will be dangerous.

The warm February weather has meant that snow cover is absent at lower elevations. Above it, there is a firn snow cover in the troughs at mid-altitudes and at the highest altitudes. From the mid-altitudes onwards, a thick layer of ice has formed on the surface. During the day it will be melted by the sun and positive temperatures. Bumps have formed in a number of places, triggering basal avalanches in many places. This situation will persist for the next few days.

Compiled by : Martin Buliak