Snow report Upper Bavaria, 02/10/2019

Snow condition

The snow conditions are good, only wind-exposed ridges and crests are covered in snow. The sun and the foehn bring out the first patches of apery. Complaining at a very high level.

Snow quality

Not completely terrible, but not good either. We were traveling in the south and west exposures. We were up to just over 1700 m and the wind was getting stronger and the visibility a bit diffuse, so we left quickly. We encountered almost all conditions today, from wind cover and melting hardpack to extremely settled powder snow.

Due to the warmer temperatures, the main danger today came from sliding snow avalanches. Sliding snow cracks as well as thicker cornices were easy to avoid. Snow plumes were clearly visible on the summits as the wind picked up. The problem of drift snow should be kept in mind. At the moment, the risk of falling is higher than the risk of burial, and despite LWS 2, I have no understanding at all for the fact that some people were traveling without backpacks (especially couples). From the descent just before the parking lot, we could see some of these constellations on the ascent today.

Overall impression

Some exercise in the snow and a bit of sunshine on the ascent. Outside in the fresh air is never a bad thing. Plus, you can't always ski in powder snow.