Tennen Mountains, Gosaukamm

Isolated trigger-sensitive snowdrift accumulations

Isolated trigger-sensitive snowdrift accumulations

MODERATE avalanche danger above 2400 m, LOW avalanche danger below that altitude. Fresh snowdrift accumulations can be triggered even by one person on steep slopes (>35°). Danger zones occur mostly in ridgeline terrain and pass areas as well as behind abrupt discontinuties in the terrain. The danger zones are easily recognized, should be avoided. On steep smooth grassy slopes below 2400 m in all aspects, isolated glide-snow avalanches up to medium size can trigger natureally. Thus, spots below glide-cracks should be assiduously avoided. In addition, due to higher temperatures and solar radiation, wet loose-snow avalanches are possible in extremely steep (>40°) terrain.

Temperatures have risen noticeably, the weekend drifts (north-facing slopes atop loose snowpack) have settled further, the proneness to triggering has receded. Fresh snow and drifts from last weekend are well bonded with the old snowpack. The lower part of the snowpack is stable. On steep sunny slopes the snowpack becomes moist during the day, a melt-freeze crust (usually capable of bearing loads) forms during the night. On shady slopes there is often good powder.

On Monday, sunny mountain weather, outstanding visibility above the local banks of haze and fog. Light winds. At 2000 m: +2 to +4 degrees; at 3000 m: 0 degrees.

Snowdrift accumulations are bonding swiftly with the snowpack below them amid warmer temperatures. Avalanche danger levels will decrease.