Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab will become deeper and more widespread on steep West to North aspects above 850 metres, where avalanches are likely. South-West and North-East aspects will also be affected by cross loading. Crag aprons, gullies and coire rims will be especially affected, with localised instabilities presenting on steep banks and burn lines at elevations above 650 metres. Cornices will present an ongoing threat of collapse. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: The southeasterly flow is expected to continue. Precipitation will fall as snow above 500 metres for most of the day. Winds will be from the South-East, very strong to gale force, rising to Storm force by the end of the forecast period. The freezing level will be around 600 to 650 metres. Observed Weather Influences: Precipitation throughout the period fell as snow above around 700 metres. Gale force winds were predominantly from the South-East. Although local topography resulted in variable winds in the Northerly facing coires. The freezing level was around 800 metres at midday. ObservedSnowStability: Unstable windslab is present on South-West through North to North-East aspects above 850 metres. Steep wind sheltered locations are mostly affected such as coire rims, gully tops and crag aprons. At lower elevations between 700 metres and 850 metres, localised drifts in steep locations are moderately bonded. Wind scoured areas are very firm and icy while fresh, fragile cornices are present above similar aspects to those above. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.