Nock Mountains

AVOID ridgeline snowdrift accumulations

AVOID ridgeline snowdrift accumulations

Avalanche danger is LOW, but in the exposed zones near ridgelines MODERATE. Dangers are focused on steep zones near ridgelines in extended northern aspects (W/N/W) where the fresh drifts can often be easily triggered. Small-to-medium sized slabs are possible. Naturally triggered shallow loose-snow avalanches (small-sized) in steep terrain and, on grassy slopes, isolated glide-snow avalanches are possible.

The cold fresh snow from Thursday daytime and Thursday night (10-20 cm) will be transported by southerly winds to north-facing ridgeline sectors on Friday. The freshly generated drifts will lie atop cold and loose snow. At low and intermediate altitudes the snow will become superficially moist. The old snow beneath it is relatively compact and evidences no pronounced weak layers. The snowpack is gliding somewhat over the warm, smooth ground.

Overcast skies from the start. Summits are free of cloud, only the highest peaks are in fog, a bit of sunshine is possible. Later on, intermittent snowfall is possible. At 2000 m temperatures rising to +1 degree, at 3000 m to -6 degrees. Southerly winds at 40 km/hr will prevail. On Saturday night and during the daytime on Sunday, 10-20 cm of fresh snow is anticipated. On Sunday the peaks will often be veiled in cloud, intermittent snowfall is anticipated. At high altitudes, a strong NW wind will be blowing (40-50 km/hr) which will slacken off somewhat in the afternoon. Temperatures will drop: at 2000 m to -9 degrees, at 3000 m, -6 degrees.

As a result of fresh snow and NW winds, fresh snowdrifts will accumulate. Avalanche danger levels will rise.