Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: Isolated unstable windslab will be deposited on North-West through North to East aspects above 950 metres. Snow amounts are expected to be modest, but deposits in steep areas such as gully tops and coire rims will be sensitive where they achieve greater depth. Outwith these areas the snowpack will be firm and stable. The snow surface will remain firm above 800 metres, softening below this and in areas exposed to solar radiation. The avalanche hazard will be Low.

Forecast Weather Influences: Snow is expected above 1000 metres during the evening and first part of the night, with the potential for brief showers from 600 metres upwards. Winds will be initially South-South-Westerly and gale force, veering West gradually decreasing to become moderate to light by the afternoon. The freezing level will be around 700 metres rising to 1250 metres by the end of the day. Observed Weather Influences: Precipitation overnight preceded a dry and bright day. Winds were very strong to gale force and from the South-South-West. The freezing level was around 1000 metres at midday. ObservedSnowStability: The snowpack is firm and stable on all aspects and elevations. The snow surface is very firm and icy on Northerly aspects and plateau areas above around 750 metres. Outwith these areas the snowpack consists of soft spring snow, particularly when exposed to solar radiation. Areas of bare ground are also present, with patchy cover on South-West aspects which have been exposed to overnight rain. The avalanche hazard is Low.