Allgäu Alps Central

Older wind slabs are prone to triggering in places.

Older wind slabs are prone to triggering in places.

The avalanche risk is moderate above the tree line and low below it. Older wind slab can occasionally be triggered as a small or medium slab avalanche by a small additional load. Avalanche prone locations are located adjacent to the ridgeline, crest or summit in steep terrain in northern and eastern aspects as well as in gullies and bowls. The number and extent of avalanche prone locations increase with altitude. In addition to the risk of burial, the risk of being swept away and falling must be taken into account.

Older wind slabs are sometimes prone to triggering on surface hoar. Snowdrift accumulations and obstacles are often covered by a thin layer of soft snow and are therefore difficult to recognise. Below the old melt-freeze crust, faceted crystals can often be found right down to the ground, especially at higher altitudes. On the south side, there is no sufficient base for winter sports up to the high altitudes.

With stronger winds and some new fallen snow, the wind slab problem will increase from Wednesday evening.