North and center of Aran

Wind slabs require caution.

Wind slabs require caution.

As a consequence of new snow and a moderate to strong wind, precarious wind slabs formed in the last few days in all aspects. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on wind-protected shady slopes and adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas. East, northeast and north facing slopes where weaknesses exist in the old snowpack are especially precarious. The avalanches are rather small but can be released easily by a single winter sport participant. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised in particular in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls.

The fresh and older wind slabs remain in some cases prone to triggering. The fresh wind slabs are poorly bonded with the old snowpack in particular on wind-protected north and east facing slopes. Reports filed by observers and field observations confirm the existence of a weak snowack on wind-loaded slopes. Above approximately 2000 m there are 20 to 30 cm of snow, and even more in some localities. Snow depths vary greatly at intermediate and high altitudes, depending on the infuence of the wind. At low altitude from a snow sport perspective, insufficient snow is lying.

Thursday: Gradual decrease in danger of dry avalanches on sunny slopes.