Hochschwab Mountains

Snowdrift accumulations at high altitudes and wet-snow problem: Caution!

Snowdrift accumulations at high altitudes and wet-snow problem: Caution!

Avalanche danger is moderate. At high altitudes the fresh snowdrifts can still be triggered by one sole skier, particularly on extended E/S facing slopes, behind abrupt drops in the terrain and in wind-loaded gullies. Due to higher temperatures, (diffuse) radiation and even some rainfall, small-to-medium sized naturally triggered avalanches are possible up to high altitudes. In addition, on steep grassy slopes, glide-snow slides can release naturally. Fresh, often large cornices are instable. Poor visibility makes assessment on-site difficult. Cornices are not stable.

The fresh snow has been able to settle. Due to diffuse radiation and higher tempertures the snowpack is moistening, or becoming thoroughly wet, losing its firmness. On steep grassy and forested slopes the snowpack can glide away. Fresh snowdrifts are trigger-sensitive only at high altitude; moreover, there are weak layers inside the snowpack near the border of fresh-to-old snow.

A high/low pressure front on Wednesday, together with a northerly air current will deliver colder moister air masses our way, thereby guaranteeing that instable conditions will continue. Heavy clouds and fog will reduce visibility. Around midday a cold front will reach the northern flank of the Alps from the northeast, bringing snowfall and lower temperatures (snowfall level dropping to 900m). Also on the southern flank of the Alps, some rain and snow showers - or graupel. Winds will be NW, moderate to brisk. At 2000 m: descending from -2 to -4 degrees; at 1500 m to just below zero.

On Thursday, cloud and fog will dominate in Niedere Tauern, Gurktal, Seetal Alps and Koralpe. Rising snowfall level in the morning, some precipitation. In the Northern Alps and the eastern rim ranges of the Alps, SE winds will disperse the clouds somewhat. As winds shift, fresh snowdrifts will accumulate in NW aspects. The wet-snow problem will persist.