Snow report Alpenostrand, 12/28/2019

Snow condition

Practically snow-free on Sunday, winter has now clearly arrived on the eastern edge of the Alps - faster than expected. The snow conditions are quite acceptable from 1000m upwards and rising quickly. To my surprise, many things are already possible in the forest, including a steep forest ditch, which definitely needs a lot of snow. Windthrow is of course still a nuisance here and there. However, the blown-off ridges on the wind-facing slopes (NW to N) should also be noted.

Snow quality

In the (windless) forest, clearly fluffy 4-star powder. But above the forest or on open alpine pastures it is very changeable (drift snow of varying hardness ... up to crushed harsh snow). So on average 3 stars.

The forecast for today from the LWD was actually 1 (in the forest) to 2 (above the forest). Contrary to the weather forecast, it snowed more overnight and during the course of the day (only a few isolated mini clouds). This resulted in the constant production of new (very brittle) drift snow and the formation of cornices. The LWD has reacted for tomorrow in the region (north-eastern Upper Styria) and issued 2 / 3 (the latter above the tree line).

Overall impression

Much better than expected. Where there was no blowing snow, it was possible to ride well without fear of grounding. Unfortunately, the weather (storm, poor visibility due to changing snowfall intensity) meant that carefree riding was impaired.