Northern Cairngorms

NC for 5.2: Unstable windslab becoming more widespread on N, E to SE aspects above 900m. Cross loading. Unstable cornices. Mod. Haz.

NC for 5.2: Unstable windslab becoming more widespread on N, E to SE aspects above 900m. Cross loading. Unstable cornices. Mod. Haz.

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab accumulations will become more widespread particularly during the day on North through East to South-East aspects above 900 metres. Areas especially affected will be gully exits, coire rims, crag aprons and scarp slopes. Isolated instabilities will develop on other aspects due to cross loading. Unstable cornices will also develop on these aspects. The old snowpack will be firm and stable. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Some light snowfall overnight, this will become heavier and more persistent through the day. Gale to storm force Westerly winds, South-West for a few hours then West again through the afternoon. The 300 metre freezing level will rise to 800 metres, later falling to 400 metres by the end of the day. Observed Weather Influences: A cold day with light snow showers on strong Westerly winds. The freezing level was at 400 metres. ObservedSnowStability: There is a thin cover of new snow at all levels. Isolated accumulations of unstable windslab have developed on North-East to South-East aspects above 900 metres. Areas most affected are within wind sheltered locations such as below coire rims and gully exits. The old snowpack is firm, well bonded and stable throughout. The avalanche hazard is Low.