Mürztal Alps

Generally low avalanche danger, but isolated snowdrift patches require caution

Generally low avalanche danger, but isolated snowdrift patches require caution

Avalanche danger is moderate above the treeline, elsewhere danger is low. Near ridges and behind discontinuities in the terrain, thin snowdrift patches have formed which can be triggered as slab avalanches even by 1 person.The dangers of falling outweigh those of being buried in snow masses.

Over the course of the last week, minor loose snow has been transported by variably shifting winds, the snowdrift accumulations are small, poorly bonded with the surface esp. on E/S facing slopes. The surface hoar and faceted crystals are potential weak layers, also the still loose fresh snow. The old snowpack beneath them is compact, without marked weak layers. The snowpack surface is highly diverse, often a hard challenge for skiers, alternating wind crusts, eroded ridges, hardened and icy surfaces. In wind-protected shady terrain and wooded zones there is also loose powder (due to cold, and good outgoing nocturnal radiation beneath clear skies).

On Sunday night heavy clouds will pass through, persist in the northern barrier cloud regions, reduce visibility up to summit level, minor snowfall is possible. South of the Main Alpine Ridge, more tranquil conditions and sunnier. At 2000 m: -5 degrees temperatures dropping: -8 to -10 degrees.

On Monday night a stormy NW wind will move into the entire region of Styria, slackening off during the daytime hours. Tuesday will be overcast, esp. in the northern regions, and cold. Avalanche danger levels are not expected to change significantly.