Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: The existing snowpack will start to slowly consolidate through the forecast period. Instabilities will be present in deep accumulations on North through East to South aspects above 850 metres. Steep wind sheltered locations will be most affected, especially where fresh deposits overlie the existing firm snowpack. Small cornices will be present on the same aspects. The old snowpack will be icy with some surface softening taking place during the day. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: The freezing level will rise above the summits late this evening where it will remain. Mainly dry with some light afternoon drizzle. Very strong West-North-Westerlies will back to the West-South-West easing slightly. Observed Weather Influences: Fresh snow overnight eased becoming more showery through the day. Gale force winds from the West-North-West with the freezing level around 700 metres at midday. ObservedSnowStability: Areas of unstable windslab are present above 800 metres on North through East to South aspects. Steep wind sheltered locations are most affected, especially where fresh deposits overlie the existing firm snowpack. Small cornices are present on the same aspects. The old snowpack is icy with good stability throughout. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.