Lower Tauern South

Shallow snowdrifts blanket persistent weak layer

Shallow snowdrifts blanket persistent weak layer

Avalanche danger levels above 2200m is moderate, below that altitude danger is low. Shallow snowdrift accumulations can be triggered as a small-sized slab avalanche even by minimum additional loading (one skier). Such releases can fracture down to more deeply embedded layers of the snowpack above 2200m and then grow to medium size, particularly on W/N/S facing slopes. The shallow-snow transitions in snow-filled gullies and bowls are especially treacherous. Danger zones tend to increase in frequency with ascending altitude.

Freshly generated snowdrift accumulations are being deposited atop a shallow melt-freeze crust atop of which is loosely-packed, faceted and expansively metamorphosed snow. Above about 2200m there are weak layers inside the old snowpack consisting of faceted crystals, frequently of surface hoar, which are often prone to triggering. The entire snowpack can glide away over steep rocky plates and grass-covered slopes. All in all, there is too little snow on the ground, exposed zones are windblown, gullies and bowls filled to the brim with snow.

Nighttime skies will be variably cloudy and dry, with extended clear phases. On Monday, mild foehn-induced weather will prevail, the southerly winds will be strong, reaching windspeeds of 80 km/hr. At 2000m: 0 degrees; at 3000m: -2 degrees. In the afternoon, temperatures will drop somewhat.

Avalanche danger levels will increase due to fresh snow and wind.