Dolomites of Fiemme North

Fresh wind slabs are to be evaluated with care and prudence. Moderate avalanche danger will persist.

Fresh wind slabs are to be evaluated with care and prudence. Moderate avalanche danger will persist.

As a consequence of a strong northeasterly wind, avalanche prone wind slabs will form by the evening over a wide area. The various wind slabs of the last few days can be released by a single winter sport participant in all aspects. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular in steep terrain and adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls. Avalanches can additionally be released in the old snowpack in isolated cases. These avalanche prone locations are rare and are difficult to recognise. In regions neighbouring those that are subject to danger level 3 (considerable) the avalanche prone locations are more prevalent. Experience in the assessment of avalanche danger is required. Meticulous route selection is recommended.

As a consequence of a gusty wind from northeasterly directions, further wind slabs will form on Saturday. The new snow and wind slabs of the last few days are poorly bonded with the old snowpack. The snowpack is soft and its surface has a crust that is not capable of bearing a load. Isolated avalanche prone weak layers exist in the old snowpack, especially on steep, little used shady slopes. These are mostly small and in some cases prone to triggering.

As a consequence of low temperatures the snowpack can not consolidate on Sunday. The snowpack remains prone to triggering in some places. The avalanche danger will persist.