On Wednesday, October 1, the Tatras Volunteer Rescue Service announced a first‑degree avalanche danger above 1,800 m, while 20 cm of snow fell on Kasprowy Wierch.
First Degree Avalanche Risk Declared
The Tatras Volunteer Rescue Service (TOPR) warned of a first‑degree avalanche danger effective from 1,800 m above sea level. According to TOPR, the snow cover is generally well bound and stable; avalanches can only be released by substantial additional loading, especially on very steep or extreme slopes. Small and medium avalanches may still occur accidentally.
Conditions in the Tatras
Overall conditions are good, but special caution is advised on steep or extreme slopes. TOPR noted that the worst conditions prevail on grassy slopes beyond the tree line, where wind creates unsafe snow slabs. Similar conditions are expected on the Polish side of the Tatras, where the same first‑degree danger was declared.
White Landscape in the Tatras
Cold, humid air from the east lowered temperatures to –4 °C at peak altitudes on October 1, compared with –1 °C in the Sudetes. Falling snow has produced a relatively thick layer, with 20 cm reported on Kasprowy Wierch, 15 cm in the Valley of the Five Lakes, and 13 cm at Gąsienicowa Hut. Synoptic forecasts predict additional snowfall.
