Northern Cairngorms

NC for 31.1. Snowpack firm and icy. Later, deposits of new snow on steep N to E aspects above 850m. Avalanche Hazard will be Low.

NC for 31.1. Snowpack firm and icy. Later, deposits of new snow on steep N to E aspects above 850m. Avalanche Hazard will be Low.

Forecast Snow Stability: Little change is expected. The snowpack will remain firm, icy and generally stable. Later, shallow accumulations of windslab will be deposited in steep, wind sheltered locations on North to East aspects above 850 metres. These are expected to be isolated and avoidable. At lower elevations snow patches and ribbons in sheltered burn lines will soften as they are subjected to a slow thaw. The avalanche hazard will be Low.

Forecast Weather Influences: Following a dry night, rain will gradually turn to snow above 600 metres in the afternoon. The freezing level will be around 900 metres overnight, rising above the summits during the day and descending to around 600 metres by the end of the period. Winds will be storm force South-Westerlies, gradually veering to Westerly, moderating only slightly to become gale force. Observed Weather Influences: A mostly dry day with occasional, very light snow showers above 800 metres. Winds were from the West-South-West and increased to strong by the end of the period. The freezing level was around 800 metres at midday. ObservedSnowStability: The snowpack is stable in most locations, and is very firm due to the cold temperatures. The greatest cover is found on North-West through North to East aspects above 900 metres in locations such as coire headwalls, gullies and plateau areas. Weaknesses at depth are slowly consolidating. The avalanche hazard is Low.