Persistent weak layers
- Above treeline
- Size
- 3
Stability: poor · Frequency: many
Even single freeriders can release avalanches easily. As a consequence of warming, the natural activity of wet avalanches will appreciably increase.
Stability: poor · Frequency: many
Stability: poor · Frequency: some
Stability: very poor · Frequency: some
As a consequence of new snow and warming a dangerous avalanche situation will persist.
Large quantities of fresh snow and the wind-drifted snow are lying on top of a weakly bonded old snowpack. As a consequence of new snow and a storm force wind, further wind slabs formed. The avalanche prone locations are numerous, especially on steep shady slopes in areas close to the tree line, as well as above the tree line. Even single winter sport participants can release avalanches easily. As a consequence of warming during the day and solar radiation loose snow avalanches are to be expected as the day progresses. This applies in particular on steep sunny slopes. In addition gliding avalanches are possible. This applies especially on cut and grassy slopes.
40 to 60 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, fell on Tuesday. The wind was strong to storm force in some cases. The wind has transported some snow. Further wind slabs formed. The snowpack will be prone to triggering over a wide area. The new snow and wind slabs are lying on top of a weakly bonded old snowpack. Somewhat older wind slabs are lying on surface hoar. Distinct weak layers exist in the bottom section of the old snowpack. This applies in particular on west, north and east facing slopes above the tree line. The rain gave rise to extreme and thorough wetting of the snowpack at low altitude.
As a consequence of warming and solar radiation, the activity of wet avalanches will increase.
Bulletin data: Avalanche Warning Service Tirol, avalanche.report (CC BY 4.0)