Lochaber

LO for 31/01. Unstable windslab developing on N,NE,E,SE aspects above 950 metres. Stable elsewhere. Moderate hazard.

LO for 31/01. Unstable windslab developing on N,NE,E,SE aspects above 950 metres. Stable elsewhere. Moderate hazard.

Forecast Snow Stability: Fresh unstable windslab will develop through the day on North through East to South-East aspects, mainly above 950 metres. Steep wind sheltered locations such as gully tops and coire rims will be most affected. Fragile cornices will develop above these locations. Elsewhere the existing snowpack will remain well bonded and stable. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Snow above 1000 metres in the morning, turning to rain at most levels around midday as the freezing level rises briefly above the summits. Precipitation then turning back to snow above 400 metres as the freezing level falls sharply to 600 metres early afternoon. Storm force South-South-Westerly winds becoming gale force Westerly in the afternoon. Observed Weather Influences: A mainly dry day. The freezing level was around 900 metres with a few very light scattered showers falling as snow above around 850 metres. South-Westerly winds increased in strength from moderate to very strong by late afternoon. ObservedSnowStability: The snowpack is very firm and stable in all locations. Any new snow deposits are not significant. The avalanche hazard is Low.