Lower Tauern South

Moderate snowdrift problem, persistent weak layer

Moderate snowdrift problem, persistent weak layer

Avalanche danger above 1900m is MODERATE, below that altitude danger is LOW. Fresh snowdrift accumulations can be triggered near ridgelines, often by minimum additional loading, but the risks of falling outweigh those of being buried in snow. Older snowdrifts can be triggered in steep gullies in transitions from shallow to deeper snow particularly by large additional loading. In least favourable circumstances the snowpack could fracture down to deeper layers and the avalanche grow to large size. Most critical: shady N/E facing slopes. In extremely steep grassy terrain, isolated mostly small glide-snow avalanches are possible.

The snowpack has settled well, is superficially melt-freeze encrusted. Weak faceted layers in the old snowpack, , the surface melt-freeze encrusted with a few cm of fresh snow/drifts on top.

On Sunday, visibility will be adequate, summits might be veiled in fog. Winds from the west will be brisk. At 2000 m: -3 degrees, at 3000 m: -10 degrees. On Monday, a cold front will pass through, bringing stormy winds and showers. At 2000 m: -6 degrees, at 3000 m: -14 degrees. In the afternoon visibility will improve somewhat.

On Monday: fresh snow and storm winds, rising avalanche danger.