Lower Tauern South

Snowdrift accumulations still prone to triggering at high altitudes

Snowdrift accumulations still prone to triggering at high altitudes

Avalanche danger abofe 2200 m is MODERATE, danger below that altitude is LOW with a daytime danger cycle also reaching Danger Level 2. Danger zones occur on NW/N/E/SE facing slopes, behind abrupt discontinuities in the terrain, in gullies and bowls, where in isolated cases slab avalanches of medium size can be triggered by minimum additional loading. As a result of solar radiation and daytime warming, naturally triggered small, also medium-sized wet loose-snow avalanches are possible in very steep terrain. The likelihood of slab avalanches triggering rises somewhat over the course of the day.

The often heavy snowfall from the beginning of the week has settled. Also the snowdrift generated by southerly foehn winds and, subsequently, NW storm-strength winds have regain firmness. Potential weak layxers at high and high alpine altitudes are evident between the snowdrifted masses, atop blanketed loose snowfall and also bordering a shallow rain-ice crust at altitudes of 2200-2500 m. The significant rise in temperatures on Friday will moisten the snowpack and cause a loss of firmness. At intermediate altitudes the snowpack is already 0-degree isotherm. At low altitudes there is little snow on the ground.

Sunshine will dominate on Friday, the high-altitude cirrus clouds will be no hindrance. Winds will be light to moderate. Temperatures will rise noticeably. At 1500 m at midday 8-11 degrees; at 2000 m: 5-8 degrees.

Springlike conditions with a daytime danger cycle on Saturday. Proneness to triggering of high alpine snowdrift accumulations will diminish.