Fischbach Alps East, Wechsel

Generally low avalanche danger

Generally low avalanche danger

In general avalanche danger is low, danger zones are limited to shady high altitude slopes where the persistent weak layer can cause releases. Slab avalanches by large additional loading can be expected in very steep gullies and bowls. Transitions from shallow to deep snow should be circumvented.

As a result of the mild and cool phases, along with intermittent rain impact of the last few days, the snowpack has settled by and large. Isolated older snowdrift patches above 2000 m are covered by a thin layer and could be prone to triggering. On shady slopes the process of expansive metamorphosis continues, there the firmness of the snowpack is weakened. Most of the surfaces are covered by melt-freeze crusts which are capable of bearing loads. On sunny slopes the snowpack can transform to firn at high altitudes, at low altitudes it becomes soft.

The Eastern Alps are in the path of a NW high-altitude air current, initially colder air masses will turn gradually milder. On Tuesday, far reaching cloudbanks will pass through, occasional sunshine is also expected. Temperatures at midday will be: at 2000 m: -1 degree, at 1500 m: +1 degrees, at 1000 m: +2 degrees. Most of the wind will be light, then shift from SW to W during the day. On Tuesday night snowfall will set in, with intensifying winds from the northwest. On Wednesday skies will remain gray and snowfall above 1000-1300 m is expected in repeated bouts amid stormy NW winds. On Thursday, more precipitation is anticipated amid storm-strength winds, but as rainfall up to high altitudes.

Increasing avalanche danger in the form of fresh snowdrifts: prone to triggering.