Southern Cairngorms

NC for 19.2. Windslab development, wet snow instabilities developing as temp rises W,NW,N,NE above 900m. Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

NC for 19.2. Windslab development, wet snow instabilities developing as temp rises W,NW,N,NE above 900m. Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab will continue to build, before developing further instabilities as the snowpack becomes moist. Areas most affected will be steep wind sheltered locations of West through North to North-East aspects above 900 metres, such as coire rims, gully tops and convexities. Fragile cornices will be prone to collapse. Elsewhere the snowpack will be well bonded and stable, slowly reducing in depth and extent. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Dry conditions are expected with very strong to gale force winds from the South-East. The freezing level will rise from 400 metres overnight to 1000-1200 metres by the end of the period. Observed Weather Influences: Snow fell overnight with some intermittent showers continuing into the afternoon above 300 metres. Winds were strong and from the South-South-East. The freezing level was around 400 metres at midday, rising later. ObservedSnowStability: Unstable windslab is present in steep wind sheltered locations on West through North to North-East aspects above 900 metres. Accumulations continue to build in areas such as coire rims, gully tops and on convex slopes. Cornices remain fragile and prone to collapse. Elsewhere a covering of fresh light snow is present, covering older firm snow patches. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.