Snow report Alpenostrand, 12/27/2016

Snow condition

Yesterday approx. 2 cm (at 1200m - 1400) of fresh snow on a frozen, firm layer of old snow (20 cm). This morning approx. 10-15 cm of fresh snow, getting better and better as the day progresses. Snowfall with strong winds, resulting in ongoing regeneration of the deep snow slopes. Snow was powdery at the top (1400m) and somewhat damp at the bottom (1200m). There was enough fresh snow to prevent the frozen old snow cover from being felt today (with the exception of the steepest parts of the slope). Skiing was already possible in the sparse forest (with appropriate caution!).

Snow quality

Fresh snow was powdery (but not really fluffy) at the top (1400m) and a little damp at the bottom (1200). All in all, the amount of fresh snow was enough to prevent the snow cover from yesterday/the day before from being felt. Strong winds with pronounced gusts repeatedly led to drifts (even in exposed forest areas) and the fresh tracks were quickly blown away accordingly.

No perceptions possible due to visibility conditions. However, strong storms and snowfall with corresponding drifts speak for themselves. There was sleet-like snowfall on the melting snow cover yesterday, which certainly represents a possible weak layer for the snow packs deposited on top.

Overall impression

The first powder day of the season makes you think twice. In view of the thin base and the small amount of fresh snow at the beginning, the conditions were actually surprisingly good, even in the forest and on overgrown/bushy slopes. Thanks to persistent (and also heavy) snowfall now in the evening hours (hopefully as announced until tomorrow morning), conditions will certainly be much better tomorrow.surprising: Niederalpl had less snow than Seeberg and therefore only partial operation (will certainly be better and more rewarding tomorrow). Seeberg is one of the last areas in the region with only natural snow.