Západné Tatry

Beware of avalanches and avalanches from wet snow!

Beware of avalanches and avalanches from wet snow!

Moderate avalanche danger is declared in the High and Western Tatras. At altitudes above 2000m above sea level, slabs and pillows of wind-blown snow from the cold front passing over the weekend are still present in the eastern and northern troughs and moguls. Avalanche danger is likely on very steep slopes with high additional mechanical loads. Spontaneous avalanches on extremely steep slopes can be expected on salinated slopes due to continued warming. The combination of slabs and cushions of packed snow that melts is very treacherous. Avalanche danger needs to be assessed locally in all orientations.

The snow cover is generally well consolidated due to the previous weather pattern. The relatively new snow from the last snowfall over the weekend has not yet had time to firm up and is not firmly bonded to the old base. This layer from the last snowfall was unevenly displaced by the wind, mainly on the eastern and later on the northern slopes. During Thursday, rain also occurred at altitudes around 2000 m above sea level. As a result of further warming, the upper layer of snow is melting, losing its cohesion.

Enduring. Compiled by: Ivan Chlebovec