Pollein and Saint-Marcel

Weak layers in the old snowpack can still be released in isolated cases. On very steep sunny slopes crampons are useful

Weak layers in the old snowpack can still be released in isolated cases. On very steep sunny slopes crampons are useful

The little fresh snow and small drift accumulations were deposited on a weak old snowpack especially on very steep shaded slopes. Some small and, in isolated cases, medium-sized avalanches are possible. In particular transitions into gullies and bowls where weaknesses exist in the old snowpack are unfavourable, caution is to be exercised on very steep slopes, and at transitions from a shallow to a deep snowpack. Dry avalanches can be released by small loads. The avalanche prone locations are sometimes covered with new snow and are difficult to recognise. Individual mostly small natural avalanches are possible, in particular on extreme slopes.

Little snow will fall on Sunday. In some localities 5 to 10 cm of snow fell on Saturday above approximately 2000 m. In the Gran Paradiso Valley headlands the precipitations were slightly more intense as was the wind. The southeasterly wind has transported only a little snow. As a consequence of highly fluctuating temperatures and solar radiation a crust formed on the surface, in particular on steep sunny slopes below approximately 2700 m. These conditions facilitated a strengthening of the near-surface layers in particular on sunny slopes. Shady slopes: The snowpack is dry and has a loosely bonded surface. Weak layers exist in the old snowpack. Snow depths vary greatly above approximately 2400 m, depending on the infuence of the wind. Adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas and at high altitude a little snow is lying. At low and intermediate altitudes less snow than usual is lying.

The weather report and anticipated change in the avalanche danger are uncertain. We recommend that you consult the most recent avalanche bulletin.