Weißkugel Group

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

The fresh and somewhat older wind slabs can be released easily by a single winter sport participant in all aspects. Avalanche prone locations are to be found in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain above approximately 2000 m. The prevalence of avalanche prone locations and likelihood of triggering will increase with altitude. Avalanches can reach medium size. Shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack can indicate the danger. Avalanches can in isolated cases be triggered in near-ground layers and reach large size in isolated cases. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on very steep west, north and east facing slopes above approximately 2000 m. Backcountry touring calls for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger.

As a consequence of new snow and a strong wind from variable directions, avalanche prone wind slabs formed in the last few days. As a consequence of a sometimes strong easterly wind, further wind slabs will form. Fresh and somewhat older wind slabs are lying on the unfavourable surface of an old snowpack. Avalanche prone weak layers exist in the bottom section of the snowpack on west, north and east facing slopes. This applies above approximately 2000 m.

The weather conditions will facilitate a gradual stabilisation of the snow drift accumulations. Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.