Hochschwab Mountains

Naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches in steep terrain

Naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches in steep terrain

Avalanche danger is moderate in general. On steep slopes in all aspects, naturally triggered glide-snow/wet-snow avalanches caan be expected. Open glide cracks are indicators of imminent danger. In addition, at high altitudes in extended east-facing terrain behind discontinuities there are snowdrift accumulations which in places can be triggered by 1 person, releases reaching medium-to-large size.

At high altitudes, ridgeline snowdrift accumulations have been generated by minor fresh snow and moderate W/NW winds, often poorly bonded with the snowpack surface. At intermediate and lower altitudes the snowpack is very moist-to-wet due to rain impact, can glide over smooth ground.

On Monday, minor snow showers will pass through the Northern Alps, clouds will disperse in the interims. The NW winds will be brisk, stronger in NE regions. Dry in the south, sunshine intermittently, winds moderate. At 2000 m: -4 to -2 degrees, cooler than in recent days.

On Tuesday the NW airstream will persist, but conditions will be more pleasant. The snowdrift problem will recede, otherwise avalanche danger levels are not expected to change significantly.