Northern Cairngorms

Forecast Snow Stability: Windslab will become moist with the onset of rain resulting in a transition from dry to wet snow instability. Areas affected will be North through North-East to South-East aspects above 950 metres. Steep slopes such as coire headwalls between 700 and 950 metres will also be affected. Cornices will be prone to collapse, triggering steep slopes below. Elsewhere, the snowpack will be moist and subject to slow consolidation. The avalanche hazard will be Considerable.

Forecast Weather Influences: Rain at all elevations is expected overnight and through much of the day. Winds will generally be from the South-South-West remaining storm force for the duration. The freezing level will remain well above the highest summits. Observed Weather Influences: Overnight snow above 600 metres preceded snow showers during the day confined to above 800 metres. Late in the period precipitation fell as rain with sleet at summit levels. Winds were gale force and from the West-South-West. The freezing level was around 850 metres at midday, rising above the summits later. ObservedSnowStability: Unstable windslab is present in steep wind sheltered areas above 950 metres. Gully tops and coire rims of a North-East to East aspect are mostly affected with cross loaded deposits elsewhere. Areas exposed to the wind are scoured or present a very firm and icy snow surface. The avalanche hazard is Considerable.