Sadnig Group

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

Distinct weak layers in the old snowpack can be released easily by individual winter sport participants especially in little used terrain. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible. Steep, little used shady slopes are to be avoided as far as possible. Mostly avalanches are medium-sized. Caution is to be exercised in particular on steep west, north and east facing slopes above the tree line. The avalanche prone locations are difficult to recognise. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack and fresh avalanches serve as an alarm indicating the danger. Fresh and somewhat older wind slabs are prone to triggering, in particular in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain above the tree line. They are clearly recognisable to the trained eye. Restraint is advisable.

Some snow will fall. As a consequence of a strong to storm force wind from northwesterly directions, further wind slabs will form in the course of the day. The various wind slabs are lying on surface hoar in some places. Above the tree line: Distinct weak layers exist in the old snowpack. This applies in particular on west, north and east facing slopes.

Weak layers in the old snowpack represent the main danger. Restraint is appropriate.