Snow conditions 29.3.2021

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

Main problem: wind slab, wet snow

Danger pattern: Cooling after warm weather / warming after cold

Danger pattern: Spring situation



Risk assessment

The avalanche danger is mostly MODERATE, level 2, above about 1700 m, and LOW, level 1, lower down. In areas with wind slab, even a small load can trigger a small slab avalanche, the probability is higher from late morning to evening. On steep southern slopes, due to relatively warm and sunny weather in the middle of the day and afternoon, individual small wet snow avalanches are possible. On wind-scoured areas and ridges mainly in the morning, and in shady spots also during the day, there is a risk of gliding.



Snow conditions

On Sunday it cooled slightly temporarily, a few centimetres of snow fell, but it was wind-transported. The snowpack froze overnight to Monday. It is mostly stable and hard, icy in places. In sheltered spots there is some wind slab left from the previous snowfall. During the day the snow softens, only in the shade of the high mountains it remains mostly dry or frozen.



Forecast weather development

Today and in the coming days, mostly sunny and warm weather will prevail. The freezing level has already risen to about 2500 m today and will rise further tomorrow and on Wednesday and Thursday, even to the height of our highest peaks. The wind will mostly be light, only today it may still blow moderate northerly winds in places.



Trend in snow conditions

Due to relatively high temperatures, the snowpack will soften during the day, only in shady high mountain spots will it mostly remain frozen. At night the snow will freeze mainly in the high mountains. During the day, small wet snow avalanches are still possible on steep southern slopes, there are still quite a few cornices that may collapse. There are still some poorly transformed slabs from last week's snowfall, but older snow layers are mostly stable as this snow is well sun crust.



Next issue: Wednesday, 31.3.2021



Source: ARSO