Southern Cairngorms

SC 19.1.24 Avalanches likely, NE to SE aspects above 800 metres. Also poor stability on N and S aspects. Avalanche haz Considerable

SC 19.1.24 Avalanches likely, NE to SE aspects above 800 metres. Also poor stability on N and S aspects. Avalanche haz Considerable

Forecast Snow Stability: Further snowfall and significant drifting will see areas of unstable windslab becoming deeper and more widespread. Stability will be poor with steep terrain on North-East to South-East aspects above 800 metres being most affected with avalanches likely. North and South aspects will also be affected due to cross-loading. Elsewhere, deeper drifts will be encountered in any lee location with exposed ridges scoured with older snow very icy. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: There will be snow showers throughout, initially to all levels but by afternoon, as the freezing level rises, precipitation will fall as rain below 500 metres. Winds will be very strong throughout, initially North-Westerly but mainly Westerly during this period. Observed Weather Influences: Snow showers overnight were followed by a generally bright morning. Cloud started building over the summits early afternoon with further snow showers to all levels. Winds were very strong North-North-West overnight but easing from the North-West for most of the day. ObservedSnowStability: Unstable windslab is present in wind sheltered locations on East to South aspects above 800 metres. Steep, sheltered features such as gully tops and corrie rims are most affected. Elsewhere, isolated moderately bonded deposits are found on North-East and South-West aspects with unconsolidated snow at lower altitudes. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.