Lower Tauern South

Snowdrift problem in summit zones

Snowdrift problem in summit zones

Avalanche danger above 2500 m is MODERATE, below that altitude LOW. As a result of snowfall and strong westerly winds, fresh snowdrift masses have been formed, prone to triggering, particularly on steep (>35°) N/E facing slopes above 2200 m. Danger zones occur behind abrupt discontinuities in the terrain, in gullies and bowls, the size and trigger-sensitivity increasing with ascending altitude. In the areas where snowfall has been heaviest the danger zones are larger and more numerous, the danger correspondingly higher. On steep grassy slopes small-to-medium glide snow avalanches continue to be possible. Avoid zones below glide cracks. In addition, due to solar radiation in the areas where snowfall has been heavy, small naturally triggered loose-snow avalanches can be expected in steep rocky terrain.

Fresh snow and drifts have settled and consolidated well in the higher temperatures. On steep shady slopes at high altitudes and wherever drifts are more widespread the consolidation is taking place more gradually. Snowdrifts are often deposited atop loose old snow or colder fresh snow and are still prone to triggering. The old snowpack has consolidated with the higher temperatures, the weak layer are no longer as easy to trigger. Amid very mild temperatures and solar radiation, the snowpack became moist on Sunday up to high altitudes, often as far up as the summit regions. During the night a superficial crust formed, this softens up during the day. Below 1800 m there is little snow on the ground.

Above the layers of fog, visibility on Monday will be good from the start, only some cirrus clouds high above summit level. As of midday, cloudbanks will move into the Northern Alps, light will become diffuse. Winds will be light to moderate from W/S. Mild: at 2000 m, 2-5 degrees, at 3000 m, 0 degrees.

Especially in the Northern Alps, some snowfall and strong NW winds. The small drifts are not prone to triggering except in isolated cases. No change in danger levels.