AVY Base

AVY Base

Avalanche bulletins

France, Norway, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden

Select a country, then a region. All forecasts use the same EAWS layout, danger icons and problem types.

Updated 01.07.2026 21:26

EAWS danger scale

European standard used across avalanche warning services.

  • EAWS avalanche danger level 1

    1Generally stable conditions

    Triggering is generally possible only from high additional loads in isolated areas of very steep, extreme terrain.

  • EAWS avalanche danger level 2

    2Heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features

    Triggering is possible, primarily from high additional loads, particularly on indicated steep slopes.

  • EAWS avalanche danger level 3

    3Dangerous avalanche conditions

    Triggering is possible, even from low additional loads, particularly on indicated steep slopes. Large natural avalanches are possible.

  • EAWS avalanche danger level 4

    4Very dangerous avalanche conditions

    Triggering is likely, even from low additional loads, on many steep slopes. Large and very large natural avalanches can be expected.

  • EAWS avalanche danger level 5

    5Extraordinary avalanche conditions

    Numerous very large and often extremely large natural avalanches can be expected, even in moderately steep terrain.

Avalanche problems

Standard problem types defined by EAWS.

  • New snow

    New snow

    Instability related to current or recent snowfall. Additional loading onto the existing snowpack is the crucial factor.

  • Wind slab

    Wind slab

    Wind-drifted snow forms slabs on leeward slopes, gullies, and behind terrain features.

  • Persistent weak layers

    Persistent weak layers

    One or more persistent weak layers in the old snowpack, such as faceted crystals or depth hoar.

  • Wet snow

    Wet snow

    Weakening of the snowpack due to liquid water from melt or rain infiltrating the snowpack.

  • Gliding snow

    Gliding snow

    The entire snowpack glides on smooth ground. Glide cracks may open before release.

  • Cornices

    Cornices

    Overhanging wind-drifted snow on leeward ridgelines. Collapse can trigger avalanches below.