Rhemes Valley

Wind slabs represent the main danger.

Wind slabs represent the main danger.

The wind slabs of the last few days are lying on unfavourable layers in all aspects. They can be released easily or naturally above approximately 2300 m. The avalanche prone locations are to be found on steep slopes and adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls. The dry avalanches can be triggered in the new snow and wind slab layers. Some medium-sized natural avalanches are further not ruled out, in particular along the border with France and along the border with Switzerland. As the temperature drops hardly any more wet and gliding avalanches are to be expected. Ski touring and other off-piste activities, including snowshoe hiking, call for extensive experience in the assessment of avalanche danger and careful route selection.

The Avalanche Warning Service currently has only a small amount of information that has been collected in the field. 50 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen since Wednesday. Above approximately 2500 m the snow is dry. The upper section of the snowpack is unfavourably layered, especially at intermediate and high altitudes. Up to 2400 m rain fell in the last two days. As a consequence of falling temperatures a crust formed on the surface on Saturday. Below approximately 2400 m the snowpack is more stable.

20 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, will fall on Monday. The danger of dry avalanches will persist.