Southern Cairngorms

SC for 4.3. Windslab becoming widespread due to redistribution on W,NW,N,NE above 850m. Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

SC for 4.3. Windslab becoming widespread due to redistribution on W,NW,N,NE above 850m. Avalanche Hazard Moderate.

Forecast Snow Stability: Poorly bonded windslab will be present on West to North aspects above 850 metres. As the day progresses further accumulations will occur on North-East aspects due to cross-loading as existing snow is redistributed. Steep wind sheltered locations such as coire rims and gully tops will be affected. The blanket snow cover will remain above 800 metres initially, although slopes exposed to the wind will become scoured. Fresh cornices will develop. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: A dry day is expected. Winds will be moderate Southerlies overnight increasing to strong by the end of the period. During the day winds will be predominantly from the South-South-East. The freezing level will fall as low as 600 metres overnight before rising to 800 metres by afternoon. Observed Weather Influences: Overnight snow fell above 650 metres, with the greatest volumes evident above 800 metres. Winds were generally strong Easterlies. The freezing level fluctuated between 700 and 800 metres. ObservedSnowStability: Poorly bonded windslab was deposited overnight and continued to develop through the day. Greatest accumulations are on South-West through West to North aspects above 850 metres in steep wind sheltered locations such as coire rims and multi aspect gully tops. A fresh blanket of snow covers ground on all aspects above 800 metres. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.