Hochschwab Mountains

Strong increase in avalanche danger already in the morning!

Gradual increase in avalanche danger during the daytime changes

The avalanche risk increases from low to moderate during the course of the day. After generally favourable conditions in the morning, the danger of naturally triggered avalanches increases as the sun shines and the weather warms up. Medium-sized and occasionally large wet loose snow and slab avalanches are to be expected in particular on sunny slopes. In addition, gliding avalanches can occur at any time on steep slopes with smooth ground. In extremely steep, shady areas above 2000 m, small to medium-sized slab avalanches can still be triggered by individuals (persistent weak layer problem).

With outgoing longwave radiation, the snow surface can consolidate somewhat, but softens again with sunlight. The hardness of the surface varies depending on the wind. With increasing moisture penetration, the snowpack loses firmness and stability. In addition to loose snow avalanches, spontaneous, wet slab avalanches can also be expected, as liquid water in the snowpack can reactivate former weak layers in the persistent weak layer. In very steep areas with a wet layer in the transition to the ground, the snowpack can slide off. Only in very shady areas above 2000 m does the snowpack still have cold reserves and, in some cases, persistent weak layers in the old snow that are prone to triggering.

High-pressure boundary. Most of the clouds will clear during the night to Tuesday and it will remain dry. On Tuesday, the sun will shine more frequently in the mountains. The sky will often be cloudless and visibility will be very good. Only a few cumulus clouds will form during the day. Often strong winds from the northwest in exposed areas. The temperature at 2000 m will be between +1 and +4 degrees, at 1500 m between +4 and +8 degrees.

On Wednesday, sunny and slightly cooler mountain weather will prevail again. The north-westerly wind will ease slightly. The avalanche risk will not change significantly.