Weisseck, Muhr Valley

Persistent weak layer and fresh snowdrifts

Persistent weak layer and fresh snowdrifts

Avalanche danger above 2300 m is MODERATE, below that altitude danger is LOW. Weak layers inside the old snowpack can on shady slopes above approximately 2300 m still can be easily triggered, particularly on wind-protected slopes at the foot of rock walls or behind abrupt discontinuties in the terrain. Avalanches can attain medium size. Weak layers in the old snow can be triggered in isolated cases on shady slopes above 2300 m or else a superficial triggered slab can fracture down to deeper layers, particularly on wind-protected slopes, at the foot of rock walls or in protected bowls. Danger zones are seldom, but difficult to recognize. Releases can reach medium size.

On north-facing slopes above 2300 m the snowpack layering is unfavourable due to a sequence of melt-freeze crusts and faceted crystals in the fundament, or else depth hoar. This applies particularly to wind-protected slopes. Winds from southerly directions are forming small snowdrift accumulations anew, behind abrupt discontinuities in the terrain and in ridgeline gullies and bowls, on shady slopes atop a loose snowpack surface where they can be triggered in places. Snow depths are below average. Snow depths are highly varied. Below 1800 m there is little snow on the ground.

On Saturday the residual clouds will rapidly disperse, visibility will improve in early morning. Frequent sunshine during the day, clouds passing through will be at high altitude. A southerly foehn wind will be blowing, gusts up to 30-60 km/hr. t 2000 m: 5-10 degrees; at 3000 m 0 degrees. On Sunday good visibility from the start. Only in the Tauern and Nockberge in early morning will there be clouds below summit level. Winds will be light to moderate. Extremely mild: at 2000 m, 5-9 degrees, at 3000 m +3 degrees.

Little change expected.