Avalanche Danger Scale According EAWS - European Avalanche Warning Services
| Danger level | Icon | Snowpack stability | Avalanche triggering probability | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5. Very high |
|
The snowpack is poorly bonded and largely unstable in general. |
Numerous large-sized, in some cases very large-sized natural avalanches can be expected, even in moderately steep terrain. |
Highly unfavourable conditions. Avoid open terrain. |
| 4. High |
|
The snowpack is poorly bonded on most steep slopes. |
Triggering is likely even from low additional loads on many steep slopes. In some cases, numerous medium-sized and often large-sized natural avalanches can be expected. |
Unfavourable conditions. Extensive experience in the assessment of avalanche danger is required. Remain in moderately steep terrain / heed avalanche run out zones. |
| 3. Considerable |
|
The snowpack is moderately to poorly bonded on many steep slopes. |
Triggering is possible, even from low additional loads particularly on the indicated steep slopes. In some cases medium-sized, in isolated cases large-sized natural avalanches are possible. |
Partially unfavourable conditions.Experience in the assessment of avalanche danger is required. Steep slopes of indicated aspects and altitude zones should be avoided if possible. |
| 2. Moderate |
|
The snowpack is only moderately well bonded on some steep slopes, otherwise well bonded in general. |
Triggering is possible primarily from high additional loads, particularly on the indicated steep slopes. Large-sized natural avalanches are unlikely. |
Mostly favourable conditions. Careful route selection, especially on steep slopes of indicated aspects and altitude zones. |
| 1. Low |
|
The snowpack is well bonded and stable in general. |
Triggering is generally possible only from high additional loads in isolated areas of very steep, extreme terrain. Only sluffs and small-sized natural avalanches are possible. |
Generally safe conditions. |