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Thursday 19 December, 2013

Avalanche Warning from MPI Brokers

19 December 2013: Alpine snowfalls over the next few days could produce the most unstable snowpack in 10 years, according to Henry's Avalanche Talk.

There has beeen no significant snowfall in the Alps for the last three weeks, and the low temperatures – particularly at night – have had a detrimental effect on the snow cover.

Depth hoar is in abundance – a very unstable layer, where the crystals will not bind to each other. With the expected heavy snowfalls over the next 48 hours, and associated high winds, this will create a significant avalanche risk.

It is usual that where avalanche conditions exist, slope angles of between 25 to 35 degrees are at the highest risk. In our view, due to the very unstable layer, the risk angle could reduce to 20 degrees.

When it stops snowing and the skies have cleared, it will be very tempting to venture off piste on the first day. This is the most dangerous time: 
• Watch out for the avalanche risk rating: we are expecting 4 or possibly 5 if there is significant snowfall. 
• Avoid slopes over 25 degrees or maybe less. 
• Watch out for steep slopes and do not enter a patch if there are skiers above you. 
• Do not go on lee slopes. 
• Tempting as it may be, if in doubt, say no.

For more about avalanche conditions, see Henry’s Avalanche Talk

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