Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab will develop as the day progresses on West to North aspects above 900 metres. North-East aspects will be subject to cross loading. Coire headwalls, crag aprons and steep wind sheltered locations will be most affected. At lower elevations steep banks and burn lines may be subject to isolated accumulations. Elsewhere above 1000 metres weaknesses remain present beneath a widespread friable crust. Fragile cornices will continue to develop. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Precipitation is expected throughout the period, this falling initially as snow above 700 metres, later above 400 metres. Winds will be from the East-South-East and very strong to gale force. The freezing level will gradually fall from 800 metres to 600 metres by the end of the period. Observed Weather Influences: Persistent snow showers above 1000 metres. Winds were South-easterly, very strong to gale force during the day. The freezing level was around 900 metres. ObservedSnowStability: Fresh unstable windslab was present on West through North-West to North-East aspects above 1000 metres, particularly around coire rims and in gully tops. Avalanche and cornice debris was observed below these aspects. Elsewhere, the snowpack has a widely developed friable crust above 1000 metres, with weaknesses observed below. Large fragile cornices remain around coire rims of the same aspects as above. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.