Tuxer Alps West

Weakly bonded old snow represents the main danger. As a consequence of southerly foehn wind, small wind slabs will form adjacent to ridgelines.

Weakly bonded old snow represents the main danger. As a consequence of southerly foehn wind, small wind slabs will form adjacent to ridgelines.

Weak layers in the old snowpack can be released in some places by individual winter sport participants. The avalanche prone locations are to be found on very steep west, north and east facing slopes above approximately 2200 m. The number and size of avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. Isolated whumpfing sounds can indicate the danger. Avalanches can reach medium size. In very isolated cases avalanches can also penetrate deep layers. Such avalanche prone locations are to be found on very steep north facing slopes above approximately 2800 m. Especially in the more southerly regions along the main Alpine ridge and in glaciated terrain. In addition soft wind slabs will form in the regions exposed to the foehn wind. Fresh wind slabs are only small but can be released easily. Such avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas at elevated altitudes. The avalanche prone locations are rather rare and are clearly recognisable to the trained eye. Restraint should be exercised because avalanches can sweep people along and give rise to falls.

Towards its surface, the snowpack is fairly homogeneous; its surface consists of loosely bonded snow. Towards its base, the snowpack is faceted and weak. This applies especially on west, north and east facing slopes above approximately 2200 m, in particular in shady places that are protected from the wind. On Sunday the wind will be moderate at times in the regions exposed to the foehn wind. Adjacent to ridgelines mostly small wind slabs will form.

Weak layers in the old snowpack necessitate caution.