Nock Mountains

Trigger-sensitive snowdrift masses at high altitude

Trigger-sensitive snowdrift masses at high altitude

Avalanche danger above 2200 m is MODERATE, below that altitude danger is LOW. Freshly generated snowdrift accumulations can often be triggered by one sole winter sports enthusiast and attain medium size. Danger zones occur on N/E facing slopes, particularly in gullies and bowls, often difficult to recognize. Trigger-sensitivity and size of danger zones increase with ascending altitude. Where there is more snow on the ground and in zones bordering regions where the Danger Level is 3 (CONSIDERABLE) the avalanche prone locations are more widespread and more frequent. The danger is then correspondingly higher.

Generally 5-10 cm of fresh snow arrived Monday evening, less than expected, particularly in the Goldberg Massif on the Carinthian border. By Tuesday midday, 10-15 cm more is expected, more from place to place. Winds will be moderate to strong, stronger along the Main Alpine Ridge, from W/NW. The transported snow is being deposited on a weak old snowpack surface above 2200 m, particularly on wind-protected shady slopes. Below 2200 m and on sunny slopes and wind-exposed terrain, the old snowpack surface was often melt-freeze encrusted and hardened. Bonding of fresh snow and snowdrifts is more favourable here. Below 1800 m, higher up on sunny slopes, the snow fell on bare ground.

On Tuesday the peaks are shrouded in heavy cloud, snow showers of varying intensity are expected. They will slacken off in the afternoon. Some bright intervals are possible. Brisk to strong NW winds, stormy on the Main Alpine Ridge. At 2000 m: -7 degrees; at 3000 m: -14 degrees.

Due to a warm front, temperatures on Wednesday will temporarily rise, winds ease. The avalanche situation is not expected to change significantly. Fresh snow and fresh snowdrifts lie deposited atop an unfavourable, faceted snowpack, particularly on shady slopes, and continue to be prone to triggering. On Wednesday night, a cold front will bring another round of snowfall.