Gurgler Group

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.

Avalanches can be triggered in the old snowpack and reach large size in isolated cases. Avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on steep, little used shady slopes above approximately 2400 m. Individual avalanche prone locations are to be found also on steep southeast, south and southwest facing slopes above approximately 2600 m. These avalanche prone locations are rather rare and are difficult to recognise. Released avalanches and reports filed by observers confirm the unfavourable bonding of the snowpack. In addition as the day progresses in particular in the regions exposed to heavier precipitation, an increasing number of loose snow avalanches are possible. The fresh and somewhat older wind slabs can be released easily by a single winter sport participant in particular on steep shady slopes above approximately 2400 m. Caution is to be exercised in particular adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls. The prevalence of the avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. Avalanches can reach medium size. From origins in starting zones where no previous releases have taken place more gliding avalanches are possible, even large ones in isolated cases. This applies in particular below approximately 2600 m. Caution is to be exercised in areas with glide cracks.

The fresh and somewhat older wind slabs are lying on soft layers on wind-protected shady slopes above approximately 2400 m. Faceted weak layers exist in the centre of the old snowpack in particular on west, north and east facing slopes. This applies above approximately 2400 m. As a consequence of rising temperatures and solar radiation a crust formed on the surface, in particular on steep sunny slopes in all altitude zones. Sunshine and high temperatures will give rise as the day progresses to increasing moistening of the snowpack, especially on sunny slopes, and on shady slopes at intermediate altitudes.

As a consequence of mild temperatures and solar radiation the snow drift accumulations will stabilise. Gradual decrease in avalanche danger.