Weakly bonded old snow in particular on steep shady slopes. Weak layers in the old snowpack can be released in isolated cases even by individual winter sport participants especially on little-used, rather lightly snow-covered shady slopes. This applies in particular in little used terrain, as well as in areas where the snow cover is rather shallow above the tree line. Avalanches can penetrate even deep layers and reach a dangerous size. Distinct weak layers in the old snowpack necessitate defensive route selection. Isolated whumpfing sounds can indicate the danger.
