Border Graie Alps

New snow and wind slabs: In regions with a lot of snow and above the tree line the avalanche prone locations are more prevalent and the danger is greater.

New snow and wind slabs: In regions with a lot of snow and above the tree line the avalanche prone locations are more prevalent and the danger is greater.

In particular in the vicinity of peaks and in gullies and bowls medium-sized and, in isolated cases, large slab avalanches are possible as a consequence of the easterly wind. Additionally avalanches can also be released in the old snowpack and reach large size. Avalanches can be released, even by a single winter sport participant. Remotely triggered and natural avalanches are possible. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack are a clear indication of a weakly bonded snowpack. The current avalanche situation calls for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger and careful route selection.

50 to 70 cm of snow has fallen since Friday above approximately 2000 m. At elevated altitudes snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. Adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas as well as above the tree line large wind slabs formed. The new snow is lying on top of a weakly bonded old snowpack in particular on shady slopes. In these regions the snowfall level rose to approximately 1600 m. Reports filed by observers indicate poor snowpack stability in particular above the tree line. Since Saturday on very steep shady slopes medium-sized avalanches were observed.

On Wednesday it will be mostly sunny. Once the snowfall has ended, the avalanche activity will gradually decrease.