Snow conditions 17.4.2019

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

Main problem: weak layers, wind slab, wet snow

Danger pattern: Spring situation



Danger assessment

Avalanche danger is MODERATE, level 2, in the high mountains of most of our ranges above approx. 1700 m a.s.l., lower down mostly LOW, level 1. Mainly steeper sun-exposed slopes above approx. 1800 m a.s.l. are dangerous, where wet snow avalanches can release spontaneously. In high mountains a slab avalanche can still be triggered by a large additional load. Lower down the old snowpack is mostly well settled and transformed and thus stable. Danger increases midday and afternoon on sun-exposed aspects due to solar radiation.



Snowpack

In sunny weather the snow softens during the day, refreezes at night. Crust is forming, which is still missing in shaded high mountain terrain. There the snow is soft and dry. Wind-exposed spots are scoured, most slabs on west and south sides of ridgetops and cols. During the day snow on sun-exposed slopes softens and becomes wet.



Weather forecast evolution

Today mostly clear, some shallow cumulus clouds mainly in the afternoon. Mostly light wind from north. Freezing level rises above 2000 m a.s.l. during day. Tomorrow moderately cloudy, occasionally overcast in places. Some summits occasionally in clouds. More sunshine to the west. Light to moderate wind from east to northeast. Slightly cooler. Friday and Saturday mostly clear and warmer again.



Snowpack evolution tendency

Snowpack refreezes overnight, during day softens esp. on sun-exposed terrain and starts metamorphosing faster and melting. Crust strengthens. Avalanche danger mostly LOW mornings and partly forenoons, during day INCREASES esp. on sun-exposed high mountain slopes to MODERATE, level 2. Thursday due to more clouds and slightly lower temperatures snow somewhat more stable even daytime, end of week similar to today.



Next bulletin: Friday, 19. 4. 2019



Source: ARSO