Prags Dolomites

Fresh wind slabs require caution.

Fresh wind slabs require caution.

As a consequence of the stormy weather the wind slabs will increase in size once again on Thursday. The avalanche-prone wind slabs are to be avoided in particular in steep terrain. Avalanches can be released, even by a single winter sport participant and reach medium size. The number and size of avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. Caution is to be exercised in the vicinity of peaks, as well as on steep shady slopes. As a consequence of warming there will be only a slight increase in the danger of wet and gliding avalanches. Meticulous route selection is recommended.

The sometimes storm force wind will transport the new snow and, in some cases, old snow as well, especially at elevated altitudes. The fresh wind slabs are in some cases prone to triggering. In some cases the wind slabs have bonded still only poorly with each other and the old snowpack, in particular on steep shady slopes and at high altitudes and in high Alpine regions. On sunny slopes and at intermediate altitudes the snowpack will soften slowly. The snowpack will be generally subject to considerable local variations. Above the tree line snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind. On sunny slopes below approximately 2200 m only a little snow is now lying.

Further warming to the high Alpine regions. On Friday it will be exceptionally warm. The wind will be moderate over a wide area. The danger of dry avalanches will persist.