Ortler Range

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow represent the main danger.

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow represent the main danger.

As a consequence of new snow and a sometimes strong wind from northeasterly directions, avalanche prone wind slabs formed since Saturday in particular adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls. These can be released by a single winter sport participant. This applies in particular on near-ridge shady slopes above approximately 2200 m. As a consequence of warming during the day and solar radiation more frequent loose snow avalanches are to be expected. This applies in particular on rocky sunny slopes. Weak layers in the upper part of the snowpack can be released by individual winter sport participants. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular on steep, little used shady slopes above approximately 2200 m and on steep, little used west and east facing slopes above approximately 2600 m. Mostly avalanches are medium-sized. Restraint is advisable on this first sunny day.

More snow than expected has fallen. Up to 30 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen. The new snow is lying on soft layers on shady slopes above approximately 2200 m. Avalanche prone weak layers exist in the old snowpack especially on little used west, north and east facing slopes. This applies in particular above approximately 2200 m. West, south and east facing slopes below approximately 2200 m: The new snow is lying on a crust. The snowpack will be subject to considerable local variations at intermediate altitudes. Below the tree line only a little snow is now lying.

Gradual decrease in avalanche danger.