Northern Cairngorms

NC for 16.2. Consolidating trend, snowpack becoming firm above 1100m. Avalanche Hazard Low.

NC for 16.2. Consolidating trend, snowpack becoming firm above 1100m. Avalanche Hazard Low.

Forecast Snow Stability: The snowpack will slowly consolidate at all elevations becoming firm above 1100 metres. The greatest snow cover will be found on North through East to South-East aspects above 1000 metres. Outwith these areas cover is limited to patches and ribbons of snow. At lower elevations these will continue to deplete in the slow thaw. Residual cornices will remain prone to collapse. The avalanche hazard will be Low.

Forecast Weather Influences: A generally dry day is expected with the potential for a trace of snow at summit level. Winds will be strong West-South-Westerlies veering to the North-West and decreasing to moderate later. The freezing level will be above the summits overnight, falling gradually during the day to around 1100 metres. Observed Weather Influences: Light summit snow overnight quickly transitioned to rain at all elevations. Winds were generally light South-Westerlies at midday. The freezing level was above the highest summits. ObservedSnowStability: Moist moderately bonded windslab is present on North through East to South-East aspects above 1000 metres. Most affected are steep wind sheltered areas where this windslab overlies firm snow, such as around coire rims, gully tops and convexities. Outwith these areas the snowpack has become soft and continues to rapidly deplete. Residual cornices are prone to collapse. The avalanche hazard is Moderate.