Avalanche Service Styria

Friday 16 January 2026

Published 15 Jan 2026, 17:00:00


Danger level

2000m
Avalanche Problem
Persistent weak layer
2000m


Unfavourable snow layering in the northern sector!

The avalanche danger above 2000 metres is rated as moderate (level 2), below that it is low. In particular, older snowdrift accumulations in the east and north sectors, especially behind ridgelines, terrain edges and in gullies and bowls, can usually be triggered by large additional loads as medium slab avalanches. Occasionally, wet loose snow slides are still possible from steep rocky and rugged terrain.

Snowpack

The snow cover, snowpack has settled somewhat due to the warmth. In the high altitudes, older wind slab lies on angular forms in the northern and eastern exposures. Weak layers are mainly found in the old snowpack (unstable layer of faceted crystals). In the foundation of the snow cover, kinetic metamorphism (floating snow) weakens the stability. On the sunny slopes, the lockout is progressing again.

Tendency

At the weekend, the high fog layer south of the Niedere Tauern and Hochschwab will become thicker, at least occasionally the mountain ranges will be covered in fog up to an altitude of 1500 metres. Sunny in the northern Alps with southerly foehn. The avalanche danger is decreasing.


Danger level


Avalanche Problem
Persistent weak layer


Low avalanche danger. Poor snow layering on the north side!

The avalanche danger is low. In the extremely steep north-facing gullies at high altitudes, the possibility of a snow slab being triggered cannot be ruled out.

Snowpack

On the north side, the kinetic metamorphism weakens the snow base, fundament. Angular shapes or cup crystals form weak layers. If an avalanche is triggered in the northern sector, the snow cover, snowpack tears through to the ground.

Tendency

The avalanche danger remains low. At the weekend, the high fog layer south of the Niedere Tauern and Hochschwab will become thicker, and at least occasionally the mountain ranges will be covered in fog up to an altitude of 1500 metres.