Lower Tauern North

Snowdrift accumulations: assess with caution

Snowdrift accumulations: assess with caution

Avalanche danger above 1800 m is moderate, below that altitude danger is low. Danger zones from fresh snowdrifts occur in all aspects and should be consequently avoided. In some places, a slab avalanche can be triggered by 1 person and grow to medium size. Older danger zones occur esp. in steep ridgeline terrain (>30°). Naturally triggered loose-snow avalanches are possible on extremely steep slopes due to solar radiation. Danger of naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches persists. Where snow is deep enough, they can reach medium size. Avoid zones below glide cracks.

The snowpack surface is lavishly covered with surface hoar where the terrain is wind-protected. The loose recent snowfall from the weekend has been transported by SE winds. The fresh snow is often still loose due to low temperatures. Snowdrifts are found in all aspects due to shifting winds. Large crystals and surface hoar have formed a weak layer, the drifts constitute the slab. The old snowpack is largely stable but the weight of fresh snow reinforces the tendency of the entire snowpack to glide downhill over the warm ground.

On Friday in the Northern Alps, tenacious fog will persist, above it in the southern mountain ranges often sunshine and good visibility. Light winds. Colder. At 2000 m: -7 degrees, at 3000 m: -10 degrees.

Fresh snowdrifts continue to be generated. Avalanche danger levels are not expected to change significantly.