North and center of Aran

The avalanche conditions are spring-like. Wet and gliding snow require caution.

The avalanche conditions are spring-like. Wet and gliding snow require caution.

From origins in starting zones where no previous releases have taken place more moist and wet avalanches are possible as the day progresses, even medium-sized ones. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on very steep slopes and in all aspects at intermediate and high altitudes. As a consequence of the rain the prevalence and size of the avalanche prone locations will increase by late in the night. Most and wet avalanches can to an increasing extent be released by people. These can in some cases be triggered in the old snowpack and reach medium size. This applies in particular on extremely steep shady slopes and at elevated altitudes, as well as on near-ridge sunny slopes as well as at high altitude. In addition a latent danger of gliding avalanches exists. The current avalanche situation calls for meticulous route selection. Apart from the danger of being buried, restraint should be exercised as well in view of the danger of avalanches sweeping people along and giving rise to falls. Backcountry tours should be started and concluded early.

Above the tree line the snowpack is wet all the way through. As a consequence of high temperatures, rain up to high altitudes and the light to moderate wind, the snowpack can not consolidate during the next few days. Outgoing longwave radiation during the night will be reduced. The surface of the snowpack will freeze very little and will soften quickly. At low altitude no snow is lying. In particular on shady slopes at high altitudes and in high Alpine regions there is still a very large amount of snow. The Avalanche Warning Service currently has only a small amount of information, so that the avalanche danger should be investigated especially thoroughly in the relevant locality.

Up to high altitudes rain will fall on Monday over a wide area. The danger of moist and wet avalanches will persist.