Hochschwab Mountains

Continuing wet-snow problem and small snowdrift patches in exposed terrain

Continuing wet-snow problem and small snowdrift patches in exposed terrain

Low avalanche danger prevails in Styria. Favorable conditions in general, but in extremely steep terrain at high altitudes, naturally triggered wet-snow and glide-snow avalanches can be expected. In addition, visibility is poor and exposed ridgeline areas can generate small snowdrift accumulations.

The “warm” fresh snow will generally bond well with the old snowpack and is not susceptible to being transported by the light easterly winds. Only small thin snowdrift accumulations will be generated. At high altitudes in steep north-facing gullies, trigger-sensitive weak layers of faceted crystals are still prevalent. At lower altitudes the water seepage into the snowpack is increasing, and the slopes are becoming bare of snow. Through more moistness, the snowpack becomes less stable and can release naturally.

On Thursday, rainfall and snowfall. Snowfall level will fluctuate between 1200 and 1400 m. Visibility will be reduced, the peaks often shrouded in fog. Temperatures at 2000 m: -2 degrees; at 1500 m: +1 degrees. Light E/NE winds at high altitudes.

On Friday, precipitation in early morning, clouds dispersing at midday somewhat, then renewed precipitation in the afternoon. Temperatures will drop further, the snowfall level descend another notch. The wet-snow problem will decrease somewhat, the snowdrift problem will come to the forefront.