Lechtal Alps East

Wind slabs represent the main danger.

Wind slabs represent the main danger.

The wind slabs of the last few days are covered with new snow in some cases and therefore difficult to recognise. Avalanche prone locations are to be found adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls above approximately 2400 m. Avalanches can still in isolated cases be released by a single winter sport participant and reach medium size. Very steep slopes are to be evaluated with care and prudence. Restraint should be exercised because avalanches can sweep people along and give rise to falls. More gliding avalanches are possible, even large ones in isolated cases, in particular on steep east, south and west facing slopes below approximately 2600 m, in particular in the regions with a lot of snow. Areas with glide cracks are to be avoided. Also on extremely steep sunny slopes individual small dry loose snow avalanches are possible as a consequence of solar radiation.

The sometimes new snow-covered wind slabs of the last few days are bonding only slowly with the old snowpack at elevated altitudes. Towards its base, the snowpack is largely stable. The snowpack will be subject to considerable local variations above the tree line. Low and intermediate altitudes: Towards its base, the snowpack is moist and its surface consists of loosely bonded snow lying on a crust that is strong in many cases.

As a consequence of a freshening wind from westerly directions, wind slabs will form on Monday.