Gailtal Alps East

Weak layers in the old snowpack necessitate caution.

Weak layers in the old snowpack necessitate caution.

Avalanches can be released in the weakly bonded old snow by a single winter sport participant. This applies on west, north and east facing slopes especially above approximately 1800 m. As a consequence of warming, the likelihood of avalanches being released will increase. In many cases avalanches are medium-sized. The number and size of avalanche prone locations will increase with altitude. Whumpfing sounds and the formation of shooting cracks when stepping on the snowpack indicate the danger. The avalanche prone locations are prevalent and are barely recognisable. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible. Defensive route selection is important.

In some localities up to 30 cm of snow has fallen since Tuesday. The new snow is lying on top of a weakly bonded old snowpack on west, north and east facing slopes above approximately 1800 m. Distinct weak layers exist in the old snowpack.

The avalanche conditions remain unfavourable.