Northern Cairngorms

NC for 20.2: Rain. Avalanches likely, NW to NE aspects, instabilities on W and E all above 950m. Cornice collapse. Considerable Haz

NC for 20.2: Rain. Avalanches likely, NW to NE aspects, instabilities on W and E all above 950m. Cornice collapse. Considerable Haz

Forecast Snow Stability: During the onset of rain there will be a period of increased instability with avalanches likely mainly on steep North-West to North-East aspects above 950 metres. Instabilities also on West and East aspects. Cornices will become increasingly unstable and could potentially trigger slopes below. Instabilities more localised on steep banks and burn lines below 950 metres. Towards the end of the day the snowpack will begin to consolidate. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Storm force South-South-East winds will continue overnight, easing through the afternoon to gale force South-South-Westerly. Dry overnight before the onset of rain at all levels during the morning, turning showery through the afternoon. The freezing level will rise to above the summits overnight, falling towards summit levels by the end of the day. Observed Weather Influences: A dry day with storm force South-South-Easterly winds. The freezing level rose to around 700 metres by midday. ObservedSnowStability: Significant drifting. Poorly bonded windslab has become more widespread especially above 950 metres on steep wind sheltered North-West to North-East aspects, this is localised on West and East aspects due cross loading. Areas such as corrie rims, gullies, crag aprons and scarp slopes are especially affected. Fragile cornices overhang these areas. Better stability within localised accumulations on steep banks and burn lines below 950 metres. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.