Prags Dolomites

Increase in avalanche danger as a consequence of new snow and wind. Weakly bonded old snow is to be evaluated with care and prudence. Fresh wind slabs at high altitude.

Increase in avalanche danger as a consequence of new snow and wind. Weakly bonded old snow is to be evaluated with care and prudence. Fresh wind slabs at high altitude.

As a consequence of new snow and wind there will be an increase in the avalanche danger. Avalanches can be released in near-surface layers of the snowpack and reach quite a large size. In the regions exposed to heavier precipitation individual natural avalanches are possible. Avalanche prone locations are to be found in all aspects above approximately 2400 m. Shady slopes where surface hoar has been covered with snow are especially unfavourable. Defensive route selection is recommended. In addition the fresh wind slabs should be taken into account. They can be released by a single winter sport participant above the tree line. This applies especially adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas. Mostly avalanches are medium-sized. On rocky slopes dry loose snow avalanches are possible as the day progresses. In the event of prolonged bright spells this applies. In addition a latent danger of gliding avalanches exists, in particular on steep sunny slopes below approximately 2600 m, as well as on steep shady slopes below approximately 2400 m. These can reach dangerously large size. Areas with glide cracks are to be avoided as far as possible.

Over a wide area 30 to 60 cm of snow will fall. In some places new snow is lying on surface hoar. Faceted weak layers exist in the top section of the old snowpack in particular on west, north and east facing slopes. This applies above approximately 2400 m. The fresh wind slabs are lying on soft layers.

Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for extensive experience in the assessment of avalanche danger and restraint. Weakly bonded old snow represents the main danger.