Tuxer Alps West

Distinct weak layers in the old snowpack are difficult to recognise. Fresh wind slabs are to be evaluated with care and prudence.

Distinct weak layers in the old snowpack are difficult to recognise. Fresh wind slabs are to be evaluated with care and prudence.

Distinct weak layers in the old snowpack can be released by large additional loads in particular on west, north and east facing slopes. This applies in particular in particular above the tree line, and below approximately 2600 m. Caution is to be exercised in particular at transitions from a shallow to a deep snowpack, when entering gullies and bowls for example. Avalanches can reach large size. In addition, avalanche prone wind slabs formed. These are to be bypassed as far as possible. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on steep shady slopes above approximately 2200 m and adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas. In addition a latent danger of gliding avalanches exists, especially on steep grassy slopes.

Faceted weak layers exist in the centre of the snowpack, especially on west, north and east facing slopes above the tree line, and below approximately 2600 m. The strong wind has transported the fresh and old snow. The fresh and older wind slabs are poorly bonded with the old snowpack in particular on shady slopes and generally at elevated altitudes. The rain gave rise to significant moistening of the snowpack over a wide area below approximately 2400 m. As a consequence of falling temperatures a crust formed on the surface.

As a consequence of new snow and strong wind there will be a gradual increase in the avalanche danger.