Saturday 28.01.2023
Published 28 01 2023, 08:02
Danger level
1800m
Avalanche Problem
New snow

1800m

Wind slab

2000m

 

New snow and wind slabs are to be assessed with care and prudence.
Fresh and somewhat older 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 many cases the avalanches in these loacations are medium-sized. The avalanche prone locations are to be found especially adjacent to ridgelines and in gullies and bowls.
Some small dry loose snow avalanches are possible as a consequence of the new snow.
Weak layers deep in the old snowpack can still be released in very isolated cases on little-used, rather lightly snow-covered shady slopes. 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.
Snowpack
>
15 to 20 cm of snow, and even more in some localities, has fallen since yesterday in all altitude zones.
As a consequence of new snow and a sometimes moderate wind from northeasterly directions, sometimes easily released wind slabs formed since Friday especially in the vicinity of peaks.

Faceted weak layers exist deep in the snowpack 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
Sunday: Rapid decrease in danger of dry avalanches as a consequence of the ceasing of precipitation. Gradual increase in danger of gliding avalanches and moist snow slides as a consequence of warming during the day.