Snow report Saalbach / Fieberbrunn, 01/17/2015

Snow condition

The snow conditions turned out to be problematic. The existing old snow has recently been blown everywhere above the tree line by strong winds. So there is generally a star. There are lots of empty spots and hidden rocks under the new, not very thick layer of fresh snow (15-20cm). Below 1600m there are a lot of loose spots! Little base... The strong first run took place in a full forest aisle and raises the rating to a full 2 stars!

Snow quality

The fresh snow is very soft and light. Less connected and easy to ski on the north side and also on the south side before the midday sun.

There was low avalanche danger below the tree line and moderate danger above. Due to the not very thick layer of snow, sliding snow avalanches are rather unlikely. This would change with heavy snowfall. Very steep slopes with heavy accumulations of drift snow should be examined carefully beforehand. Otherwise, there are no avalanche concerns. We triggered a loose snow avalanche ourselves in a steep gully. However, this did not pose a serious threat to us or others!

Overall impression

Great first run with fluffy Pueeelvaer. Unfortunately, the great sunny ski day was marred by increased rock contact and a real material battle. Two out of three group members suffered serious damage to their boards and skis.