Persistent weak layers
- Above 1,900 m
Danger zones hard to recognize.
Danger zones hard to recognize.
Avalanche danger above 1900m is moderate, below that altitude danger is low. Avalanches can in some places be triggered even by one sole skier. Above 2200m avalanches can fracture down to more deeply embedded layers in the snowpack, particularly on steep north-facing slopes. Whumpf noises and cracks when you tread upon the snowpack, as well as fresh avalanche releases, are alarm signals and indicate imminent danger. Naturally triggered glide-snow and loose-snow avalanches are possible, mostly small sized releases. Small naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches are possible.
Inside the old snowpack on very steep shady slopes there are weak layers of faceted crystals, snowdrifts form the slab at surface level. On the one hand, the snow was able to metamorhose esp. where snow is shallow; on the other, below the near-surface melt-freeze crust there are also faceted crystals. On shady slopes the loose snow is still evident, on sunny slopes it is turning to firn.
On Sunday, cloudless skies will extend over the mountains, only near the valley floors will fogbanks limit the visibility somewhat. Winds will be mostly light. At 2000m: -1 degree; at 3000m: -8 degrees.
Persistent weak layer problem will gradually recede as snowpack settles
Bulletin data: Avalanche Warning Service Salzburg (CC BY 4.0)