Hochschwab Mountains

Wet-snow problem plus snowdrifts at high altitudes: caution urged

Wet-snow problem plus snowdrifts at high altitudes: caution urged

Main danger on Friday: naturally triggered wet loose-snow avalanches of medium size in all aspects. Danger zones for slab avalanches are limited to high altitudes in extended N/W aspects where there are still trigger-sensitive snowdrifts, esp. behind abrupt drops in the terrain and in gullies and bowls.

Through the higher temperatures the most recent snowfall is being moistened, older drifts are losing their internal tension. Further snow transport, snowdrift generation, is only at high altitudes. At intermediate altitudes the snowpack has lost much stability through recent rain.

The latest significant high-low pressure front is receding to the west, from the south mild but instable air masses are coming our way. Friday will bring variable conditions, SE winds along the Northern Alps will disperse the clouds somewhat. On the south side of the Alps, peaks will be shrouded in fog. In the afternoon, isolated thunderstorms will develop and bring showers. Winds will be light to moderate from S/SE. Totes Gebirge over Dachstein to the northern flank of the Tauern will be warmest: at 2000 m, +4 degrees, at 1500 m +9 degrees. At the rimline ranges temperatures are slightly lower: 0-4 degrees. Saturday will be the most stable weather day of the week: bright skies, mild, zero-degree level will ascend to just below 3000 m.

No change