Nock Mountains

Danger zones are difficult to recognize

Danger zones are difficult to recognize

Avalanche danger above the timberline is considerable, below that altitude danger is moderate. Snowdrifts can release a medium-sized slab avalanche even by minimum additional loading. Most avalanche prone locations occur on W/S/E facing slopes, both near to and distant from ridgelines and in steep gullies in all aspects. Avalanche prone locations are often difficult to recognize on-site. Backcountry freeriders and skiers require ample experience to assess these dangers in outlying terrain.

The snowpack has settled after lots of snowfall. Due to nights of clear skies, surface hoar has formed. Where the sun has moistened the snowpack on Wednesday, a thin melt-freeze crust could form. Older drifts lie deposited in gullies and bowls, often blanketed by fresher snowfall. Bonding between the fresh snow (which fell amid mild temperatures) and the cold snow beneath it is poor.

On Thursday, initial sunshine. Visibility will deteriorate during the daytime from the north. In the Lungau Nockberge, brisk northwesterly winds will arise towards evening. Temperatures will drop noticeably. At 2000 m: -6 degrees. Also on Friday, the peaks will be shrouded in heavy cloud, intermittent snowfall is possible.

Northerly foehn winds will transport the snow once again.