Lower Tauern Central

Fresh snowdrifts are trigger sensitive on N/E facing slopes.

Fresh snowdrifts are trigger sensitive on N/E facing slopes.

Fresher and older snowdrift accumulations are still easy to trigger. Danger zones occur on N/SE facing slopes, esp. near ridgelines and in gullies, bowls. Avalanches of medium size can be triggered in some places above 2000 m even by minimum additional loading (1 person). Danger zones increase with ascending altitude, are often blanketed with fresh snow and are difficult to recognize. Slab avalanches can be triggered also in spots with shallow snow; or fracture down to more deeply embedded layers. Glide-snow activity persists. Medium-sized avalanches can trigger at any time on steep grassy slopes and over rock plates. Areas below glide cracks should be avoided.

The fresh snow is bonding well with the old snowpack. Due to light-to-moderate NW winds, small snowdrifts can accumulate anew, are most easily triggered where they are deposited atop loose snow. That means at high altitudes or on shady slopes. On sunny slopes and at low altitudes the snow has settled well in the interim.The snowfall from the weekend lies deposited atop an old snowpack base which is riddled with crusts. These deeper layers are unlikely to be triggered. Below 2400 m, the well bonded snowpack can glide down towards the valley on smooth ground.

On Wednesday, reduced visibility due to fog and clouds. Overall 5-10 cm of fresh snow can be expected. The W/NW winds will be moderate (up to 30 km/hr). At 2000 m: -7 degrees; at 3000 m, -13 degrees.

No significant change is expected.