Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab will continue to develop on North-West through North to East aspects mainly above 1000 metres. Areas most affected will be coire rims, gully tops and other steep wind sheltered locations. Below this height, localised instabilities will be present but these are not expected to be extensive. Fragile cornices will be present on the same aspects. Many areas will be wind scoured with the old snowpack remaining generally stable throughout. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Storm force South-Westerly winds will continue through the evening before easing to gale force around dawn. Fresh snowfall expected initially as low at 700 metres before being confined to the highest summits when heaviest snow accumulation is expected. Snowfall will continue through the day down to around 600 metres by the afternoon. The freezing level will rise to 1200 metres overnight before lowering down to around 700 metres. Observed Weather Influences: Storm force winds from the West-South-West eased slightly during the afternoon. Heavy squally snow showers throughout the day accompanied with sunny intervals. The freezing level was around 900 metres at midday. ObservedSnowStability: Instabilities within the snowpack are present on North through East to South-East aspects above 850 metres. Areas most affected are coire rims, gully tops and other steep wind sheltered locations. Cornices remain present on the same aspects. The old snowpack has started to refreeze with generally good stability throughout. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.