Snow conditions 12.2.2021

Danger level is 3 on the European 5-level scale - CONSIDERABLE.

Main problem: new snow, wind-blown snow



Risk assessment

Avalanche danger is above sea level around 1700 m, CONSIDERABLE, 3rd degree, lower down MODERATE, 2nd degree. The snowpack has gradually stabilised mainly in mid-mountains due to cooling, icy surfaces have increased on wind-exposed sites. In the high mountains there is still much loose snow which settles only slowly and transforms poorly. Today, individual dry snow avalanches can still occur on steep slopes there. Above the tree line, especially on southern slopes, slab avalanches can be triggered under light load.



Snow conditions

Light snowfall in the mountains stopped yesterday, polar air mass reached us. In mid-mountains 10 to 40 cm of dry snow fell, due to cooling even old wet snow started freezing. In high mountains there is a thick and loose snow cover that sinks deeply. Above the tree line moderate northerly wind blew yesterday, transporting new snow and building new slabs on southern slopes and gullies. Wind-exposed sites are scoured, crust formed in places.



Expected weather development

Today partly clear, mainly below around 2000 m variable lumpy cloudiness will form, some summits may also be in fog. Weak to moderate easterly to northeasterly wind will blow, more pronounced on the coastal side of the mountains. Temperature at 1500 m around -14, at 2500 m around -16 °C. Saturday initially mostly clear. During the day variable cloudiness will form, some summits may occasionally be in fog from which light snow may fall, more clear in the western Julians. Moderate, in high mountains also strong northeasterly wind will blow, transporting new snow. Temperature at 1500 m around -16, at 2500 m around -19 °C. Sunday mostly clear, moderate northerly wind still blowing. Slightly warmer, at 1500 m around -11, at 2500 m -18 °C. Similar weather on Monday, wind will weaken.



Trend in snow conditions

Strengthened northeasterly wind will particularly on Saturday build new slabs, drifts and wind slabs on southern slopes and gullies. New snow will not transform due to low temperature, on shaded slopes frost may weaken snowpack bonding. Avalanche danger will be above around 1500 m CONSIDERABLE, 3rd degree, lower down MODERATE, 2nd degree. Especially in high mountains conditions will be DIFFICULT. Icy surfaces will increase, also in mid-mountains and lower hills, where there will also be risk of slipping.



Next bulletin: Monday, 15.2.2021



Source: ARSO