Nock Mountains

Snowdrift accumulations trigger-sensitive in places

Snowdrift accumulations trigger-sensitive in places

Avalanche danger above above the treeline is moderate, below that altitude danger is low. Fresh snowdrift accumulations can be triggered by 1 person in some places, often small releases, sometimes medium. Particularly near wooded zones, the drifts can be deposited on surface hoar and very trigger-prone. Older drifts usually triggerable only be large additional loading. The drifts are easily recognized for the experienced. Avoid them in steep ridgeline terrain (>30°). A certain danger of naturally triggered glide-snow avalanches persists. Where snow is deep enough, they can reach medium size. Avoid zones below glide cracks.

The snowpack surface is lavishly covered with surface hoar where the terrain is wind-protected. The loose recent snowfall from the weekend is still loosely packed. Snowdrifts are found in all aspects due to shifting winds. Large crystals and surface hoar have formed a weak layer, the drifts constitute the slab. The old snowpack is largely stable. The snow base is still moist, reinforcing the tendency of the entire snowpack to glide downhill over smooth ground (rocks, grass).

On Tuesday, initially reduced visibility due to heavy clouds, soon dispersing and showing the sun. As of midday, more clouds, moderate-to-brisk westerly winds. At 2000 m. -12 to -6 degrees; at 3000 m: -18 to -10 degrees.

Avalanche danger levels increasing on Main Ridge due to wind and some snowfall as Wednesday approaches.