Northern Cairngorms

NC for 19/01 Continued development of windslab on N-E-S aspects above 900m. Cornices fragile above these aspects. Haz. Considerable.

NC for 19/01 Continued development of windslab on N-E-S aspects above 900m. Cornices fragile above these aspects. Haz. Considerable.

Forecast Snow Stability: Unstable windslab will continue to develop on North through East to South aspects above 900m where avalanches are likely. Greatest hazard will be where fresh accumulations gain depth on steep convex terrain, such as gully tops, crag aprons and coire rims. Other aspects will be affected due to cross-loading. Cornices will continue to develop and become unstable. Wind scoured snow will vary from improving stability to icy and stable. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Very strong Westerly winds will increase to gale force during the day. Light snow showers in the evening, dry overnight followed by light snow showers in the afternoon. Freezing level around 200m rising to 500m during the day. Observed Weather Influences: Heavy snow showers during the morning on Strong North-West winds. Freezing level was around 200m. ObservedSnowStability: Poorly bonded windslab continues to develop and become more widespread on North-East through East to South aspects above 900m, South-West and North aspects are also affected due to cross loading. Windslab instabilities persist a lower elevations mostly above 500 metres in steep convex features. Stability improving on slopes exposed to the wind. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.