Werdenfels Alps

Snowdrifts above 2200 m still prone to triggering

Snowdrifts above 2200 m still prone to triggering

Avalanche danger above 2200 m is moderate, below that altitude danger is low. Main problem: snowdrifts. Fresh and older snowdrift accumulations at high altitude can be triggered as medium-sized slab avalanches, in particular by large additional loading. Avalanche prone locations are found mostly in steep ridgeline terrain in N/E aspects as well as in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. Frequency and size of the danger zones increase with ascending altitude. In addition, glide-snow avalanches (medium-size) can trigger naturally on steep slopes with smooth ground where they have not yet been discharged.

Snowdrifts can be deposited by Friday afternoon at higher altitudes due to some fresh snow and increasingly brisk westerly winds. These will settle and consolidate due to the mild weather but will sometimes still be prone to triggering, especially on shady leeward slopes. At high altitude the snowpack surface is frequently hard and shows strong wind impact. Isolated deeply embedded weak layers are also still found at high altitude in areas with plenty of snow. At intermediate altitudes the old snow is moist all the way down to the ground. There is little snow on the ground.

Until Friday the avalanche danger will not change significantly.