Northern Cairngorms

NC for 23.2. Unstable windslab on North through East to South aspects above 900m. Cornices above same aspects. Moderate hazard.

NC for 23.2. Unstable windslab on North through East to South aspects above 900m. Cornices above same aspects. Moderate hazard.

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab will build on North through East to Southerly aspects above 900m. Areas most affected will be where accumulations have gained depth. This will be in wind sheltered locations, such as coire rims and gully tops. These accumulations will gradually start to consolidate towards the end of the forecasting period. Cornices will develop above the same aspects. Where the old snowpack is exposed, in wind scoured areas, this will be firm and stable The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Strong Northerly winds will back West-South-West through the night, then steadily increase in strength to reach gale force by the end of the forecasting period. Very light snow showers in the evening, then predominantly dry. The freezing level will drop to around 500m overnight, then gradually rise to summit level by late afternoon. Observed Weather Influences: Overnight snowfall to 550m, followed by a predominantly dry morning with precipitation resuming in the afternoon. The freezing level was around 700m. Strong North-Westerly winds.

ObservedSnowStability: Unstable windslab is developing on North-East through East to Southerly aspects, above 900m. Areas most affected are where accumulations have gained depth. This is primarily in wind sheltered locations, such as coire rims and gully tops. Cornices are developing above the same aspects. Where the old snowpack is exposed, in wind scoured areas, this is firm, icy and stable. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.