High Avalanche Risk in The Alps

Avalanche danger forecast for Thursday

Northern flank of the Alps; Valais; Gotthard region; Flims; Calanda; northern Prättigau:

Considerable avalanche danger (Level 3)

The avalanche prone locations are to be found particularly on wind loaded slopes in all expositions. In southern Valais and in the Gotthard region, the danger zones are found above approximately 2200 m; elsewhere above approximately 1800 m. The freshly formed snowdrift accumulations can be easily triggered even by a single backcountry skier or freerider. They should be avoided, even when there is hardly any snow just adjacent to them. During the night in particular, naturally triggered avalanches are also expected. Especially in northern Lower Valais, in Chablais and in the Vaud Alps, these avalanches will often attain medium size. Skiing and freeriding in outlying terrain away from secured ski runs necessitates a great deal of experience in evaluating avalanche dangers.

Remaining regions of Grisons; central and northern Ticino not including Gotthard region:

Moderate avalanche danger (Level 2)

The avalanche prone locations are to be found particularly on wind loaded slopes in northwestern to northern to southern exposition above approximately 2400 m. The freshly formed snowdrift accumulations are generally small sized, but can be easily triggered. They should be avoided whenever possible. With ascending altitude, the number and the size of avalanche prone locations increase.

Trend for Friday and Saturday

On Friday morning in northern regions it is expected to be quite sunny. Thereafter, clouds will move in and by Saturday evening some snowfall is expected. The snowfall level will descend from 1500 down to 1000 m. In the Valais and in southern regions, it will be partly sunny on both days. The westerly wind will be blowing at strong velocity. The avalanche danger will recede on Friday. On Saturday, it may increase slightly in northern regions.