Friday 27.01.2023
Published 26 01 2023, 17:00
Danger level
2000m
Avalanche Problem
Wind slab

2000m

Persistent weak layer

 

Wind slabs and weakly bonded old snow require caution.
The more recent wind slabs can be released by a single winter sport participant especially on east to south to west facing aspects above approximately 2000 m. In isolated cases the avalanches in these loacations are medium-sized. The avalanche prone locations are to be found adjacent to ridgelines and in pass areas.

Weak layers in the old snowpack can be released in very isolated cases on little-used, rather lightly snow-covered shady slopes. Remotely triggered avalanches are possible in isolated cases. In particular on wind-loaded slopes these are in some cases large.

Backcountry touring and other off-piste activities call for experience in the assessment of avalanche danger and caution.
Snowpack
>
5 to 10 cm of snow will fall until Saturday in all altitude zones.
As a consequence of new snow and a sometimes moderate wind from northeasterly directions, mostly small wind slabs formed in the last few days in the vicinity of peaks.

Faceted weak layers exist deep in the snowpack in particular on wind-protected shady slopes. Whumpfing sounds and stability tests indicate the unfavourable bonding of the snowpack on steep shady slopes.

Above the tree line there are 50 to 100 cm of snow, and even more in some localities. At intermediate and high altitudes snow depths vary greatly, depending on the infuence of the wind.
Tendency
Saturday: Slight increase in danger of dry avalanches as a consequence of new snow and wind.