Avalanche forecast

Considerable danger in all aspects above 2000m, moderate danger below 2000m

Considerable danger in all aspects above 2000m, moderate danger below 2000m

Freshly generated snowdrifts can be triggered by one sole skier. Avalanche prone locations are found particularly on wind-loaded steep ridgeline slopes, behind protruberances and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. Danger zones increase in frequency and size with ascending altitude. Older drifts can also be triggered by one sole skier, especially on shady slopes at high altitudes. Triggered avalanches can grow to medium-to-large size. Weak layers in the old snow can be triggered, particularly in Rätikon, Silvretta and Verwall on NW/N/NE facing slopes, and then grow to large size. Activities in backcountry demand experience in assessing avalanche risks on-site and careful route selection. At intermediate altitudes on smooth, steep grass-covered slopes small-to-medium glide-snow avalanches are possible.

The foehn raged yesterday, strong in exposed terrain, at storm-strength in places. Fresh, trigger-sensitive snowdrift accumulations were generated anew. Last night there was 10 cm of fresh snow registered; 15 cm in rear Bregenzerwald, Tannberg and Kleinwalsertal. It fell amid strong westerly wind influence, generating now snowdrift accumulations. Due to solar radiation and daytime warming, older drifted layers are often poorly consolidated, in places still prone to triggering. In high alpine regions the situation is more critical still. In the Rätikon, Verwall and Silvretta the snowpack contains weak layers. Avalanches which trigger can fracture down to those weak layers and become larger in size. At intermediate altitudes the snowpack is moist, which reinforces gliding movement over smooth slopes.

Snow showers during the nocturnal hours will taper off this morning, the sun will come out, visibility improve. Towards evening clouds will move in from the northwest, winds intensify and snow showers spread over Vorarlberg. Temperature at 2000 m: -7 degrees at midday, later on dropping slightly. Brisk to strong, gusty NW winds at high altitude.

On Friday night, light snow showers, heavier during the latter part of the night in places, subsequently tapering off on Saturday morning. Avalanche danger is not expected to change significantly.