Northern Cairngorms

NC 10.3.25 Fresh windslab developing on S, SW, W asp above 900m Cross loading other asp. New snow to around 600m. Aval Haz Moderate.

NC 10.3.25 Fresh windslab developing on S, SW, W asp above 900m Cross loading other asp. New snow to around 600m. Aval Haz Moderate.

Forecast Snow Stability: Fresh deposits of windslab will develop in steep wind sheltered locations mainly on South to West aspects mostly above 900 metres. Other aspects and lower elevations will also be affected due to cross loading and re-distribustion. Instabilities will rapidly develop where these deposits gain depth or overlie the older re-frozen snowpack. Elsewhere the new snow will mostly fall on bare ground. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: A dry evening is expected, later rain will quickly turn to heavy snow, easing to less frequent snow showers during the day. The freezing level will initially remain above the summits, lowering during the night to around 600 metres by early morning. North-Easterly winds will gain in strength to become gale force by early morning, remaining at this strength for the rest of the forecast period. Observed Weather Influences: A warm and dry day with good visibility and extended periods of sunshine. The winds were moderate South-Easterlies and the freezing level was above the highest summits. ObservedSnowStability: The patchy snow cover is well bonded and stable throughout. The greatest accumulations are confined to coire back walls, coire rims, ridge flanks and the plateau, mostly on North-West through North to East aspects above 1000 metres. Elsewhere the ground is mostly clear of snow. The avalanche hazard is Low.