Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: Localised accumulations of windslab will develop above 900 metres on East to South aspects these will be isolated on South-West aspects. The greatest instability will be where accumulations gain depth in steep terrain such as gully tops, coire rims and convexities. Later in the period these accumulations will begin to consolidate. On these aspects fresh fragile cornices will develop. Elsewhere the old snowpack will be firm well bonded and stable. The avalanche hazard will be Moderate.

Forecast Weather Influences: Snowfall is expected above 400 to 500 metres on fresh North-West to North-North-East winds, this will clear to leave a dry day with light increasing to fresh Southerly winds. The 500 metre freezing level will steadily rise to summit levels by the end of the day. Observed Weather Influences: Mostly dry through the morning before the onset of rain and drizzle through the afternoon, this turned to snowfall above 1000 metres later in the day. Winds were gale force Southerly, The freezing level at midday was around summit levels, cooler through the afternoon. ObservedSnowStability: The snowpack surface is thawing and is generally stable on all aspects and elevations. The greatest snow cover remains in high coires and plateau areas above 800 metres, with snow patches and ribbons extending to lower elevations. Glide cracks were observed on a steep North facing slope at around 1000 metres. Rockfall continues to be a potential hazard. The avalanche hazard is Low.