The level of avalanche danger in Tatra mountains has increased from first to second. During the night, a lot of snow fell in the mountains, 45 centimeters of snow fell in Kasprovi Vierch. Difficult conditions prevail in the Beskids. Rescuers are calling for caution.
Second, moderate avalanche hazard means that avalanche triggering is usually possible with additional loads, especially on steep slopes. Spontaneous occurrence of very large avalanches is unlikely. The temperature at the top dropped to -15 degrees.
The Tatra National Park Service (TPN) reports that the trails, especially above the upper border of the forest, are completely covered with snow, impassable and the flow is not visible. This combined with a low cloud ceiling can lead to disorientation in the field and getting lost. In some places, deep snow is blown by the wind.
If we go to the higher parts of the Tatra Mountains, we must have extensive experience in the field of winter tourism, the ability to assess the local avalanche danger and choose the right route. It is essential to have winter gear such as crampons, ice axe, hat and avalanche ABC.
TPN urges not to enter the ponds as the ice is thin in places and can break. Unfortunately, some tourists still enter the surface of Morski Oko.
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Difficult conditions in the Beskids
Conditions on the Beskid hiking trails are also difficult. It snowed more at night. There is also a strong wind. There is ice under the layer of fresh snow. Crawling hands are needed for walking. On Saturday morning, the temperature in the mountains was between -7 and -10 degrees, said mountaineering experts from the Shirk station.
Visibility is limited in the mountains. Completion times for the routes shown on the maps may be significantly longer under current conditions. “We appeal to the people not to go to the mountain alone, especially in winter,” – say climbing experts.
The first level of avalanche danger applies in the area of Babia Gora. It mainly occurs in places where there is a lot of snow accumulation under the influence of very strong winds, especially in grasslands. The snow cover is uneven and increases with altitude. It reaches 35 centimeters in Markove Shchaviny and up to 60 centimeters in high areas. 100 centimeters of snow will fall in windy places.
Perć Akademików, the yellow trail from Gorny Plaj to Babia Gora is closed until spring. This is the most difficult route in the Beskids. It is one-sided, relationship-oriented.
Tourists who go hiking in the mountains should be well prepared. Sturdy shoes and warm clothes are especially important. In the current conditions, crampons are necessary, and if one goes to Babia Gora – also crampons. Sticks can be useful. The phone must be charged and the “Rescue” app installed, a light that dims before the skiers descend is also useful.
Tourists can use cable cars.
In case of an accident in the mountains, you can call GOPR on the free emergency number: 985 or 601 100 300.
Main photo source: pozna.topr.pl
