Northern Cairngorms

NC for 5.12. Unstable windslab developing in extent on SW,W,NW aspect above 900m, Cornices weak. Hazard Moderate

NC for 5.12. Unstable windslab developing in extent on SW,W,NW aspect above 900m, Cornices weak. Hazard Moderate

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab, deep in places, gradually becoming more extensive on mostly South-Westerly through West to North-Westerly aspects. This overlies a weak snowpack structure with steep places such as gully tops, coire rims, crag aprons and wind sheltered areas at lower elevations most affected. Developing unstable cornices on same aspects will threaten slopes below. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate

Forecast Weather Influences: Winds will be light to moderate strength North-East to Easterly. A mostly dry and bright day is expected with a freezing level around 400m. Another cold day on the tops with summit temperatures around -7 deg C. Observed Weather Influences: Poor visibility throughout the day above 900m. Strong Easterly winds in the early part of the day with significant drifting snow - Winds eased later. Freezing at Glen level. ObservedSnowStability: New snow with drifting has formed poorly bonded windslab, deep in places in mostly wind sheltered locations on Southerly through West to North-Westerly aspects above 900 metres. Coire rims, gully tops and steep wind sheltered convex slopes most affected. Fresh and unstable Cornices are also forming above these aspects. The avalanche hazard is Moderate