Crust before the snow
5th March 2023
Today was another day that mostly looked like the inside of a ping pong ball – white! The visibility was poor above 900m.
The temperatures were fluctuating constantly, with rain in temperatures of minus 2 degrees C, then snow falling only moments later. A widespread fragile crust has formed, not supporting those on foot, and only sometimes supporting the weight of a skier. Travel on both foot and ski was challenging.
Snow is forecast to fall all levels by morning, becoming persistent and sometimes heavy. Unstable windslab will build, primarily on East to South aspects above 900m, becoming increasingly hazardous as the day progresses. The avalanche hazard will be considerable. Expect blizzard conditions on the hill tomorrow.
Breaking through the fragile crust on foot.
A brighter spell around lunchtime, where blue sky could be seen overhead from the summit of Cairn Gorm, but it did little to improve the visibility.
Breakable crust whilst travelling on ski.
After a few afternoon snow showers, it cleared to get a view of Coire an Lochain from the office.
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