Snow conditions 19.3.2021
19.03.2021
The danger is at 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 above about 1700 m is mostly MODERATE, level 2, lower down SLIGHT, level 1. In places with wind slab you can trigger a dry loose snow avalanche even with minor loading. On wind-scoured areas and ridges there is a high risk of falls.
Snow conditions
Snow conditions vary greatly locally. In recent days up to 5 cm of very light snow fell during minor showers, transported by wind. The snowpack on wind-exposed terrain is hard and partly icy. In lee areas, dry snow layer on hard base, mostly 10 to 20 cm thick. Due to frequent wind there are many drifts and slabs, mainly on south-facing slopes. Due to low temperatures, snow on sun-exposed slopes crusts during the day mainly in mid-mountains, less in high mountains and remains mostly hard during the day. Some crust on new snow mainly due to wind, in mid-mountains also due to sun.
Forecast weather evolution
Today morning partly clear, afternoon variable cloudiness, some summits occasionally in clouds. Mainly midday and afternoon individual snow showers forming, a few cm new snow possible. Weak northerly winds. Temperature at 1500 m around -6, at 2500 m around -14 °C. Saturday mostly cloudy, partly foggy. Local precipitation, partly showers, more in afternoon. Up to 5 cm new snow forecast. Mostly weak northerly winds. Temperature at 1500 m around -7, at 2500 m around -16 °C. Sunday dry weather. Initially mostly clear, midday cloudiness increasing from northwest. High mountain summits occasionally in clouds. Northerly wind strengthening. Morning still cold, midday gradually slightly warmer, at 1500 m around -6, at 2500 m around -12 °C. Also early next week dry weather with variable cloudiness. Still windy, strong northerly.
Trend in snow conditions
Due to cold weather snow conditions will not change much. High risk of falls remains. Places with wind slab still dangerous for triggering loose snow avalanches. Early next week areas with wind slab will increase slightly.
Next bulletin: Monday, 22. 3. 2021
Source: ARSO