Ampezzo Dolomites

The new snow and wind slabs represent the main danger.

The new snow and wind slabs represent the main danger.

Down to intermediate altitudes snow fell during the night in some regions. Over a wide area 20 to 40 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen above approximately 1900 m. The strong wind has transported a lot of snow. In particular adjacent to ridgelines the wind slabs have increased in size additionally. The wind slabs are mostly extensive and to be assessed with care and prudence. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls and at transitions from a shallow to a deep snowpack. In some places the avalanches can be released easily. Avalanches can be released, even by a single winter sport participant. In particular on wind-loaded slopes medium-sized and, in isolated cases, large avalanches are possible. The new snow can be released naturally in all aspects above the tree line.

As a consequence of the strong to storm force northwesterly wind, fresh snow drift accumulations will form. In some cases the various wind slabs have bonded poorly with each other and the old snowpack. In addition further wind slabs will form adjacent to ridgelines in all aspects and generally in the high Alpine regions as the day progresses. They can be released easily.