Ankogel-Hochalm Group

Wind slabs are to be evaluated critically.

Wind slabs are to be evaluated critically.

The somewhat older wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on west to north to east facing aspects above approximately 2000 m. Individual avalanche prone locations are to be found also on steep south facing slopes above approximately 2400 m. Caution is to be exercised in particular at the base of rock walls and behind abrupt changes in the terrain, as well as in gullies and bowls. In particular in shady places that are protected from the wind avalanches can release the weakly bonded old snow as well and reach quite a large size. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack can indicate the danger. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised as well in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls.

The wind slabs have settled a little. They are bonding only slowly with the old snowpack. The old snowpack consists of faceted crystals. Steep south facing slopes: As a consequence of mild temperatures and solar radiation a crust formed on the surface. The snowpack will be generally subject to considerable local variations. Only a small amount of snow is lying for the time of year in all altitude zones.

Wind slabs are to be avoided.