Berchtesgaden Alps

New snow problem turns into snowdrift problem

New snow problem turns into snowdrift problem

Above the timberline avalanche danger rises from moderate to considerable. Below the timberline it remains low. Snowdrifts will become the main problem. During the course of the day, many trigger-prone snowdrifts will accumulate in steep ridgeline terrain in N/E/S aspects as well as in gullies and bowls and behind slope protuberances. These are triggerable as slabs by low additional loading and can reach medium size. In addition, new fallen snow can trigger as loose snow avalanches in steep rocky terrain. Such avalanches generally remain small-sized.

At intermediate altitude up to 30cm of new snow have fallen on previously bare ground or on encrusted, stable remnant snow. At higher altitudes the new snow was deposited atop loose snow layers, in particular in shady areas. During the course of the day, westerly winds will intensify, generating fresh snowdrifts above the timberline. These accumulate atop loose new snow and are prone to triggering. The snowpack base is wet and by and large stable.

Due to wind and new fallen snow avalanche danger will remain tense.