Allgäu Alps Central

Far-reaching nighttime snow transport by persistent winds

Far-reaching nighttime snow transport by persistent winds

Avalanche danger in Allgäu, Ammergau, Werdenfels and Berchtesgaden Alps above the treeline is considerable, below that altitude danger is low. Snowdrifts are the main problem. Danger zones occur in steep ridgeline terrain in NW/E/S facing terrain and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls and forest clearances. Snowdrift accumulations can be triggered as slab avalanches even by 1 person. Avalanches can reach medium size. Caution towards dangers of being swept along and falling. In addition, small-to-medium loose-snow avalanches can be expected in extremely steep terrain.

The loose powder snow and minor fresh snow is being far-reachingly transported by winds. The snowdrifts are deposited atop weak layers and are prone to triggering. In a few places on north-facing slopes there are faceted crystals clinging to melt-freeze crusts. On shady slopes and in wind-protected terrain, the snow is still loose and unbonded. Wherever the surface consists of wind crusts or melt-freeze crusts, it is capable of bearing loads. The snowpack is moist up to high altitude and the lowermost layers often wet, but hard and compact.

Weather will be highly variable in the next few days. Depending on the amounts of rainfall, avalanche danger levels can rise.