Northern Cairngorms

NC. 29.03 Windslab and persistent weak layers on W through N to E aspects above 1000m. Unstable cornices! Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

NC. 29.03 Windslab and persistent weak layers on W through N to E aspects above 1000m. Unstable cornices! Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

Forecast Snow Stability: Moderately bonded windslab will remain, overlying persistent weak layers at depth on West through North to East aspects above 1000 metres. Areas most affected will be wind sheltered locations such as steep convex terrain, gully lines and corrie rims. Above same aspects unstable cornices will be present. On other aspects and at lower elevations the patchy snowpack will continue to stabilise. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Strong South-South-West winds back South-South-East and increase to storm force by mid afternoon Wednesday. Light rain showers expected in the afternoon. Freezing level will remain above the summits. Observed Weather Influences: Strong Southerly winds with drifting at higher elevations. Light snow showers. The freezing level rose to around 900 metres. ObservedSnowStability: Unstable windslab continues to develop and overlies persistent weak layers at depth on mostly North-West to North-East aspects above 900 metres. On same aspects fragile cornices are present. Areas most affected are steep, wind sheltered locations such as gully lines and coire rims. West and East aspects are also affected due to crossloading. Below 900 metres the remaining patchy snowpack is gradually thawing, consolidating and is generally stable. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.