Marked weak layers in the old snowpack can still easily be triggered by one single winter sports enthusiast, especially above 2200m on steep, little-skied on slopes. The danger zones are not visible. Remote triggerings still cannot be ruled out. Avalanches which release can fracture to deeper layers in the old snowpack and grow to medium size. Whumpf noises and fractures when treading on the surface are alarm signals. Activities in backcountry demand careful evaluation of the terrrain and assessment of the dangers. Restraint is advised.
Snowpack
The most recent fresh snowfall and freshly generated snowdrifts have already settled somewhat and consolidated. In higher wind-protected zones there is still loose snow or surface hoar deposited on top of a weak old snowpack, particularly on steep shady slopes. On sunny slopess and in general at lower altitudes, the snowpack is melt-freeze encrusted in many places. The snowpack on steep south-facing slopes are often capable of bearing loads. Avalanche triggerings in the old snow continue to reinforce just how prone to triggering the snowpack is.
Tendency
Weak layers in the old snowpack are the main problem. Depending on fresh snowfall and wind, avalanche danger could increase again.
Danger level
1800m
Avalanche Problem
Persistent weak layer
1800m
Isolated avalanche prone locations in steep shady terrain
A single winter sports enthusiast can trigger small slab avalanches in some places, particularly in ridgeline terrain and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. If releases then sweep away deeper weak layers of the snowpack, the avalanche can in isolated cases grow to medium size. Danger zones are impossible to spot. Whumpf noises and fractures forming on the surface are alarm signals. Due to higher daytime temperatures and solar radiation, isolated loose-snow avalanches can be expected in very steep terrain.
Snowpack
Particularly on steep shady slopes, the often unfavorable base and intermediate layers of the old snowpack have persisted. On sunny slopes and in general at lower altitudes the snowpack surface is often melt-freeze encrusted. The snowpack on steep south-facing slopes is often capable of bearing loads.
Tendency
As a result of some fresh snowfall and wind, avalanche danger could increase somewhat.
Danger level
2000m
Avalanche Problem
Persistent weak layer
2000m
Still a highly unfavorable snowpack
Older snowdrift accumulations can still be triggered. Marked weak layers in the old snowpack can be triggered by one single winter sports enthusiast, particularly on steep, little skied on slopes. The danger zones are not visible. Whumpf noises and fractures when treading on the surface are alarm signals. Activities in backcountry demand careful evaluation of the terrrain and assessment of the dangers.
Snowpack
The most recent fresh snowfall and freshly generated snowdrifts have already settled somewhat and consolidated. In higher wind-protected zones there is still loose snow or surface hoar deposited on top of a weak old snowpack, particularly on steep shady slopes. On sunny slopess and in general at lower altitudes, the snowpack is melt-freeze encrusted in many places. The snowpack on steep south-facing slopes are often capable of bearing loads.
Tendency
As a result of some fresh snowfall and wind, avalanche danger could increase somewhat. Triggerings in the old snow are still possible.
