Werdenfels Alps

Isolated weak layers persist in the old snowpack at high altitude!

Isolated weak layers persist in the old snowpack at high altitude!

Avalanche danger at high altitudes is moderate; at altitudes lower than that it is low but rises to moderate even below 2000 m in line with the daytime danger cycle. The main problem still stems from weak layers in the old snowpack. In steep ridgeline terrain in N/O aspects isolated slabs can still be triggered by a single person engaged in winter sports, especially in zones with shallow snow such as at the entry points of steep gullies. Avalanches attain medium size. Danger of naturally triggered medium-sized superficial wet-snow avalanches increasing during the daytime due to solar radiatio and daytime warming. Isolated medium-sized glide snow avalanches can be expected on smooth steep grass-covered slopes. Glide cracks indicate danger.

At intermediate altitudes the snowpack has generally settled well and solidified. In particular on sun-drenched slopes a melt-freeze crust forms during the night which softens again during the day. Due to solar radiation and daytime warming the uppermost snow layers near the surface are becoming thoroughly moist and thus forfeit their firmness. On sunny slopes the ground is becoming bare up to high intermediate altitudes. At higher altitudes, in some places intermediate weak layers consisting of expansively metamorphose (faceted) crystals have persisted at ground level but also in the upper half of the snowpack.

The old snow problem will gradually recede; wet snow will become more of an issue. The avalanche situation will not change significantly in the next few days.