Border Graie Alps

Precarious weak layers exist in the snowpack in particular on shady slopes. In particular, however, the various wind slabs of last week are prone to triggering in some cases still.

Precarious weak layers exist in the snowpack in particular on shady slopes. In particular, however, the various wind slabs of last week are prone to triggering in some cases still.

The more recent wind slabs are mostly easy to recognise and to be assessed critically. These can be released by a single winter sport participant in isolated cases at high altitudes and in high Alpine regions, especially at their margins. The avalanche prone locations are to be found adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. Weak layers in the old snowpack can be released especially by large additional loads in particular on steep shady slopes. Weak layers in the old snowpack are difficult to recognise. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack are a clear indication of a weakly bonded snowpack. Off-piste activities call for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger and caution. The Avalanche Warning Service currently has only a small amount of information, so that the avalanche danger should be investigated especially thoroughly in the relevant locality.

The strong wind has transported the new snow and, in some cases, old snow as well. In the last few days clearly visible wind slabs formed at intermediate and high altitudes. In addition, snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. Large-grained weak layers exist in the old snowpack on shady slopes. As a consequence of low temperatures the snowpack could not consolidate. Some small and medium-sized dry slab avalanches have been released by people last week.