Prags Dolomites

Wind slabs are to be evaluated with care and prudence.

Wind slabs are to be evaluated with care and prudence.

As a consequence of a storm force wind, extensive wind slabs formed in the last few days in all aspects. These are in some cases still prone to triggering in particular on steep northwest, north and east facing slopes. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular in steep terrain above approximately 2200 m and adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls. The prevalence of these avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. Single persons can release avalanches in some places, including medium-sized ones. The fresh wind slabs are to be bypassed in particular in very steep terrain.

The storm force wind has transported the fresh and old snow significantly. Above approximately 2200 m snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. The fresh wind slabs are bonding poorly with the old snowpack in particular on shady slopes and generally at elevated altitudes. In some cases the various wind slabs have bonded still only poorly together. The old snowpack consists of faceted crystals, especially on shady slopes. Steep sunny slopes as well as low and intermediate altitudes: The snowpack is moist. As a consequence of falling temperatures a crust will form on the surface.

As a consequence of new snow and a strong wind, further wind slabs will form.