Ulten Valley

Fresh wind slabs require caution.

Fresh wind slabs require caution.

The more recent wind slabs can be released in some cases in particular on very steep shady slopes above approximately 2200 m, especially at transitions into gullies and bowls. The mostly small wind slabs are clearly recognisable to the trained eye. The prevalence of the avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. Restraint should be exercised because avalanches can sweep people along and give rise to falls. Avalanches can in very isolated cases penetrate near-ground layers of the snowpack and reach medium size. On extremely steep sunny slopes loose snow avalanches are to be expected as the day progresses, in the event of solar radiation especially.

The fresh wind slabs are lying on unfavourable layers in particular on steep shady slopes at high altitudes and in high Alpine regions. Shady slopes: The snowpack consists of faceted crystals. Isolated avalanche prone weak layers exist in the old snowpack. Steep sunny slopes: As a consequence of mild temperatures and solar radiation a crust formed on the surface. 10 to 20 cm of snow has fallen. Less snow than usual is lying. Snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind.

The weather conditions will facilitate a gradual stabilisation of the snow drift accumulations.