Lochaber

LO for 5.3. Windslab will continue to accumulate on W,NW,N and NE aspects above 900m. The Avalanche Hazard will be Considerable.

LO for 5.3. Windslab will continue to accumulate on W,NW,N and NE aspects above 900m. The Avalanche Hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Snow Stability: Poorly bonded windslab will accumulate throughout the period, as existing snow is redistributed. The greatest instability will be on West to North aspects above 900 metres, particularly in steep wind sheltered locations such as coire rims, gullies and crag aprons. North-East aspects will also be subject to cross-loading. Areas exposed to the wind will become increasingly scoured. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Snow is expected overnight before resuming late in the period, this will be confined to terrain above 1000 metres. Winds will be gale force from the South-East, decreasing to strong South-South-Easterlies by the end of the period. The freezing level will fluctuate between 900 and 1000 metres. Observed Weather Influences: A generally dry day. Winds were from the South-East, initially moderate, becoming strong later. The freezing level was around 800 metres at midday. ObservedSnowStability: Fresh poorly bonded windslab was deposited overnight and as the day progressed, on West to North aspects above 900 metres. Older deposits containing weaknesses also persist on the same aspects. Areas most affected are steep wind sheltered locations, such as coire rims, gullies and crag aprons. Outwith these areas, the cover consists of unconsolidated snow lying on bare ground or firm snow patches. Slopes exposed to the wind are scoured and icy. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.