As a result of intensifying winds, small-sized freshly generated snowdrift accumulations can be triggered as small-to-medium sized slab avalanches. Danger zones occur primarily behind steep drops in the terrain and in wind-loaded gullies and bowls. Frequency and spread of avalanche prone locations increase with ascending altitude. Furthermore, avalanches can fracture in weak layers of the old snow from large additional loading and in isolated cases then grow to medium size. Such isolated avalanche prone locations occur in spots where the snow is shallow or in transitions from shallow to deep snow. As a result of strong solar radiation, small wet loose-snow avalanches can trigger in extremely steep terrain.
Snowpack
Fresh snowdrifts which will be generated during the course of the day on Wednesday will be deposited on top of an unfavorable old snowpack surrace. No further releases have been reported from the somewhat older snow triggering. On steep south-facing slopes there is often a melt-freeze crust capable of bearing loads which then softens up during daytime hours. The mid-level part of the snowpack consists of well-settled, compact layers widespread which on high-altitude shady slopes cover a poorly structured old snowpack fundament.
Tendency
A marked cold front will bring fresh snowfall and wind. Avalanche danger will increase.
Danger level
1800m
Avalanche Problem
Wind slab
1800m
Beware small snowdrifts
Avalanche danger is predominantly low. As winds intensify, however, fresh small-sized drifts can easily be triggered as small avalanches, particularly near ridgelines and behind sharp drops in the terrain. In addition, isolated avalanches can be triggered by large additional loading in extremely steep terrain. Apart from the risks of being buried in snow masses, the danger of being swept along and forced to take a fall require attentiveness.
Snowpack
The small, shallow snowdrifts generated on steep shady slopes have bonded only poorly with the old snowpack surface. On steeper shady slopes, a melt-freeze crust capable of bearing loads is evident widespread, this softens up during daytime hours. The old snowpack is generally well-settled and compact.
Tendency
A marked cold front will bring fresh snowfall and wind. Avalanche danger will increase.
