Kitzbühel Alps Wildschönau

At elevated altitudes a sometimes precarious avalanche situation will prevail.

At elevated altitudes a sometimes precarious avalanche situation will prevail.

Very large quantity of fresh snow as well as the sometimes large wind slabs formed during the snowfall can be released easily, or, in isolated cases naturally in all aspects above the tree line. Avalanche prone locations are to be found in gullies and bowls, and behind abrupt changes in the terrain. They are currently prevalent immediately adjacent to the pistes as well. The fresh wind slabs are covered with new snow in some cases and therefore difficult to recognise. Avalanches can be triggered in the new snow and wind slab layers and reach quite a large size. In addition some small to medium-sized loose snow avalanches are to be expected. In addition a considerable (level 3) danger of gliding avalanches exists. This applies on steep grassy slopes. As a consequence of solar radiation more frequent dry loose snow avalanches are to be expected, even medium-sized ones. This applies on extremely steep slopes. Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for extensive experience in the assessment of avalanche danger and restraint.

Over a wide area 30 to 50 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen. High altitudes and the high Alpine regions: The old snowpack is largely stable and its surface has a crust, in particular on steep sunny slopes. The fresh snow and the wind slabs are lying on soft layers. Intermediate altitudes: The old snowpack is wet and its surface has a melt-freeze crust that is barely capable of bearing a load.

A critical avalanche situation will prevail. Restraint is advisable on this first sunny day.