sportscotland Avalanche Information Service

Snow and Avalanche Report

Issued at 17.00 hrs Monday 20/12/1999
All Highland mountain areas have had a dry day. Winds rising
during the day have caused some drifting of recent loose snow.
North-Easterly, then Southerly wind directions have created light
accumulations on most aspects.  Only in Ross-shire and the
North-West, where most snow exists, does this represent an
avalanche hazard.  Elsewhere, most slopes above 900 metres and
many extensive patches below that altitude, consist of hard old
snow-ice. The presence of significant recent accumulations in
Torridon, the Fannichs and other Northern ranges, on many slope
aspects, still warrants a Category 3 (Considerable) hazard of
avalanche for those regions.  Approaches in these areas are
laborious, with deep unconsolidated snow.

Avalanche Hazard Outlook Tuesday 21/12/19
Snowfall, sometimes heavy, will move Eastwards across the
Highlands, affecting Lochaber by early morning and the Cairngorms
by lunchtime.  Generally Southerly winds will cause significant
build-up of new slab on all Northerly aspects.  This will lie on
pre-existing snow-ice layers or on recent loose snow deposits.
Avalanches are likely on many Northern aspects above 800 metres,
with the possibility of releases at lower altitudes where any
significant new accumulations overlie old snow-ice patches.
Unstable cornices will build over Northerly facing slopes. The
avalanche Hazard will be Category 3 (Considerable).

Note:  This interim format for the Snow and Avalanche Report will
continue until 23/12/1999, when the usual format of five
individual Reports will resume.  The interim Reports are created
at SAIS base, using automated data gathering and
computer-assisted forecasting, along with input from informants
in various areas and feedback from the public. Overall confidence
rating for Report outlook section 75-80%.




 




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