Tirol’s Valleys: Warmest Winter in 257 Years Analysis
The past winter in the valleys of Tyrol was the warmest in the 257-year history of measurements, with the mountains experiencing the second warmest winter. Data available from the years 1767/68 to 2023/24 show that the season was characterized by above-average precipitation and very mild temperatures. This led to a significant difference in snow conditions, with lower altitudes remaining almost snow-free while higher elevations saw comparatively large amounts of snow.
Across Austria, there was about 50% less new snow, which lasted only half as long as in an average winter between December and February. These discrepancies align with the expected changes for the coming decades, where warming in lower areas is likely to bring more rain than snow, which will melt faster. Higher elevations are projected to remain cold enough for sufficient snowfall, potentially leading to above-average snow depths due to anticipated increased precipitation levels. Therefore, the 2023/24 season serves as a blueprint for future winters.
Increase in Glide Snow Problems with Avalanches and Avalanche Fatalities
Glide snow avalanches were a constant issue throughout the winter season, with heavy snowfall on unfrozen ground favoring this phenomenon. The Lawinen.report warned about the problem on 123 out of 158 publication days, attributing the glide snow issue to significant snowfall and rain reaching high altitudes in November and December. Additionally, variable weather conditions with a mix of diffuse radiation, high humidity, rain, and Saharan dust deposits resulted in a deep saturation of the snowpack. In Tirol, four avalanche accidents in the 2023/24 season were linked to glide snow issues, which experts described as an exceptionally high number.
An accident occurred below the Bärenkopf in the Karwendel when a member of a hiking group was caught and buried by a descending glide snow avalanche, leading to his tragic death at the scene. Since the timing of glide snow avalanche releases is difficult to predict, hikers and ski tourers can only preemptively avoid areas below identifiable glide cracks and minimize time in hazardous zones.
Warmest Records in February and April
The standout warmest February in recorded history was the one in Tirol (+5.4°C) – even for an average March, this February was too warm nationwide at +1.4°C. Similarly, unusually warm air masses in April quickly saturated the snowpack even in high-altitude areas.
Conclusion: Is the Lawinen.report a Reliable and Informative Tool?
“For our users, the lesson remains that the Lawinen.report is only a forecast and carries uncertainties. It is crucial to compare the field conditions with the prediction and adjust plans according to any discrepancies,” write the avalanche experts regarding the reliability of the information.
In the end, the Lawinen.report serves as a valuable resource for understanding and anticipating avalanche risks, but it is essential to combine its insights with on-the-ground observations and adapt accordingly. Stay safe and informed when exploring the mountains!
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