Border Graie Alps

New snow and wind slabs represent the main danger.

New snow and wind slabs represent the main danger.

In some localities 10 to 20 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, fell in the last few days above approximately 2200 m. As a consequence of new snow and a strong northwesterly wind, avalanche prone wind slabs formed adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls as well as at elevated altitudes. The avalanche prone locations are to be found in particular in steep terrain and at transitions from a shallow to a deep snowpack. The new snow and wind slabs of the last few days can be released easily or naturally in particular on north to east to south facing aspects above the tree line. Avalanches can be released by a single winter sport participant. Additionally avalanches can also be triggered in the old snowpack and reach large size in the regions with a lot of snow. As a consequence of new snow and strong wind the wind slabs will increase in size additionally as the day progresses.

The foehn wind has transported the new snow significantly. The spring-like weather conditions gave rise to significant settling of the snowpack in particular on sunny slopes at low and intermediate altitudes. Individual weak layers exist in the centre of the snowpack on shady slopes.

Until Sunday the wind will be strong to storm force at times in the regions exposed to the foehn wind. As a consequence of new snow and strong wind the wind slabs will increase in size additionally. The weather report and anticipated change in the avalanche danger are uncertain. The avalanche danger should be investigated very thoroughly in the relevant locality.