Sudden warming in the Tatras raises risk of spontaneous avalanches, TOPR warns
After recent snowfall, the Tatras remain under winter conditions, but a forecasted temperature rise to 12 °C on Kasprowy Wierch could trigger wet-snow avalanches.
Winter conditions persist in the upper Tatras after recent snowfall, leaving trails blanketed in snow and many areas icy, which hampers orientation for trekkers. A significant temperature increase is expected on Saturday, with forecasts showing Kasprowy Wierch reaching up to 12 °C. TOPR cautions that such warming will promote the formation of spontaneous avalanches from heavy, wet snow, especially on slopes with grass or rock substrates.
Despite the official first (low) level of avalanche danger above 1900 m, the combination of steep gradients and the predicted melt can still trigger slides. The rescue service urges mountain visitors to plan routes prudently, refrain from hikes beyond the altitude of mountain shelters, and always check weather forecasts before heading out.
