Weisseck, Muhr Valley

Danger zones blanketed by fresh snow

Danger zones blanketed by fresh snow

Above 2200 m the fresh snow (which fell with little wind) is the main problem. Older snowdrift accumulations on N/E facing slopes have drifts covered by the fresh snow and are thus, unrecognizable; these are prone to triggering and can release medium sized avalanches. In wind-exposed terrain, weak layers inside the fresh snow can be triggered easily, but the releases are mostly small due to minor transported snow masses. Danger zones often unrecognizable: first, older drifts are covered by fresh snow, second, poor visibility makes recognition difficult. Above 2500 m, weak layers in the old snowpack can be triggered. Danger zones esp. on shady very steep slopes. Transitions from shallow to deeper snow are unfavourable. Releases usually require large additional loading but can fracture down to deeper layers and then grow to large size. Below 2400 m the gliding snow persists. Danger zones in all aspects, glide-snow avalanches can release at any time of day on steep grassy slopes and smooth rocky terrain and reach medium size. Avoid zones below glide cracks. Due to rain impact and higher temperatures, isolated medium-sized wet loose-snow avalanches can be expected on very steep slopes below 1800 m.

Below 2000 m the snowpack is thoroughly wet. Due to further rain impact the snowpack continues to forfeit its firmness. Inside the snowpack, no weak layers are evident. As the snowfall level drops the fresh snow below 2000 m will bond well with the snowpack. Above 2000 m the wind-transported fresh snow will be deposited on a soft snowpack surface. Fresh drifts are forming, older snowdrift accumulations are being covered but can be triggered nonetheless. In high alpine regions above 2500 m the snow base still consists of crusts with embedded softer layers.

On Wednesday heavy clouds and poor visibility will dominate. Snowfall level will descend from 1500 m in the morning to below 1000 m in the evening, repeated bouts of snowfall. At midday the precipitation will pause, then recommence later in the afternoon. Overall, only a few centimetres are expected. Winds will slacken off, be light or non-existent. A bit colder. At 2000 m: -4 to -2 degrees, at 3000 m -9 or -8 degrees, at 3000 m -9 or -8 degrees.

Due to intensifying winds fresh snowdrifts will accumulate on Thursday.