Snow report Eastern Alps South, 04/29/2018

Snow condition

A lot of snow has also melted in the Niedere Tauern since last weekend. No wonder really, with 30°C in the valley and repeated rain up to above summit level... Nevertheless, I was surprised. Start with skis no longer possible, from the parking lot Edelrautehütte about 20 minutes carry, also in the further course of the tour again and again short unbuckling necessary, even in areas with mountain pines / alders you sometimes get problems because there is not enough snow.

Snow quality

Below 2000m summer snow, depending on inclination and exposure also suncups which make the descent a bit rough. Above 2000m still firn, not really well frozen due to very high temperatures and foehn influence, but with descent at 8 o'clock (NE side) very good firn.

I would now describe it as very relaxed. There's not really much snow left, I would assume that even at the highest altitudes it's completely soaked, so if you leave in good time you should be on the safe side. You have to watch out for cornices, some of which are already very soggy and moving.

Overall impression

Very nice to ride, too bad it's over soon. The next few days will probably still be ok, but the carrying distance and the interruptions due to lack of snow will increase very quickly. If the weather stays warm next weekend, it may no longer be interesting.