Snow conditions 15.1.2020

The danger level is 2 on the European 5-level scale - MODERATE.

Main problem: drifted snow, new snow

Danger pattern: Cooling after warm weather / warming after cold



Risk assessment

Avalanche danger is MODERATE, level 2, in high mountains above approx. 1800 m elevation, lower down mostly LOW, level 1. Steep slopes with drifted snow are dangerous, where with greater load a slab avalanche can be triggered. Below approx. 1800 m there is little snow, therefore avalanche danger there is low.



Snow conditions

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



Expected weather development

Dry weather will continue. Today mostly clear, more cloudiness in hills of Inner Carniola and northern Littoral as well as in mid-mountains of southern Julian Alps. Weak to moderate southwesterly wind. Freezing level mostly at height of highest summits, lower down locally layer of colder air. Tomorrow mostly clear, occasionally considerable high stratus cloudiness. Freezing level at approx. 2300 m elevation. Mostly weak northeasterly wind. Friday mostly clear, only in mid-mountains especially east moderate to mostly cloudy and locally occasionally foggy. Weak southwesterly wind. Temporarily somewhat warmer at altitudes.



Tendency of snow conditions

The snowpack will continue transforming slowly. Crust will strengthen, icy surfaces will increase. Avalanche conditions will hardly change.



Next bulletin: Saturday, 18.1.2020



Source: ARSO