Snow conditions 13.1.2020

Danger is level 2 on the European five-level scale - MODERATE.

Main problem: wind slab

Danger pattern: Cooling after warm weather / warming after cold



Risk assessment

Avalanche danger is currently in the high mountains above about 1800 m altitude MODERATE, level 2, lower down mostly LOW, level 1. Steeper slopes with wind-drifted snow are dangerous, where slab avalanches can be triggered by greater load. Below about 1800 m there is significantly less snow, so avalanche danger there is low.



Snow conditions

The snowpack is particularly on sun- and wind-exposed locations crusty and hard. Snow is heavily wind-drifted on summits and ridges, often down to the icy base. There is a greater risk of slipping. Above 2200 m and in more shaded areas there are still areas with poorly transformed snow. There is also considerable wind-drifted snow in the form of dunes and slabs.



Forecast weather development

Dry weather will continue. Today partly clear, occasionally increased high cloudiness. Weak to moderate southwesterly wind. Temperature around freezing. On Tuesday and Wednesday, low cloudiness will form especially in the foothills of the Julian Alps, which may occasionally spread to other parts of the mid-mountains. In the high mountains it will remain mostly clear. Weak to moderate southwesterly wind will continue. On Tuesday temperature around freezing, on Wednesday slightly warmer.



Tendency of snow conditions

The snowpack will continue to transform slowly. The crust will strengthen, icy surfaces will increase. Avalanche conditions will hardly change.



Next issue: Wednesday, 15.1.2020



Source: ARSO