Bollettino valanghe

Frequent fresh and older snowdrifts at high altitude – isolated small-to-medium glide-snow avalanches at low altitude

Frequent fresh and older snowdrifts at high altitude – isolated small-to-medium glide-snow avalanches at low altitude

Small snowdrift accumulations (fresh and older) are the main problem at high altitude. Such danger zones are located above 2400 m in steep ridgeline terrain, mostly in NW/N/E aspects and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. Small slab avalanches can be triggered by one sole winter sports enthusiast in places. At low altitude avalanche danger is predominantly low. Isolated small avalanches are possible in extremely steep terrain. Due to the hardened surfaces, the danger of taking a fall should not be underestimated. At intermediate altitudes on smooth grassy slopes and forest clearances which have not yet discharged, glide-snow avalanches are possible at any time of day or night. All areas below glide cracks should be avoided. In isolated cases avalanches can grow to medium size.

In general the old snowpack has settled and consolidated well. Snowpack surfaces in many areas are melt-freeze encrusted or iced-over. At high altitudes, isolated older snowdrifts persist, often they are prone to triggering. Small, fresh snowdrifts have been generated whose bonding to the melt-freeze encrusted snowpack is poor. At mid-level inside the snowpack there are still faceted crystals on shady slopes above 2200 m. At intermediate altitudes the snowpack is thoroughly wet down to the ground and has receded in volume. Below 1400 m there is not much snow left on the ground.

Heavy cloud cover from a warm front are bringing some rainfall and snowfall (above 2100-2400m) to the northern regions. From the Rätikon to Silvretta, strong southerly foehn winds will disperse the cloud somewhat during the daytime. Temperature at 2000m: 3-5 degrees. Strong to stormy SW winds at high altitude.

On Tuesday night a cold front from the northwest will bring lower temperatures and new snow. Depending on the amounts of new snow, avalanche danger could increase.