Difficult conditions in the Tatra Mountains. TPN warns against snow and icy conditions on the trails

In recent days, snowfall has occurred in the higher parts of the Tatra Mountains. There was already 10 centimeters of white snow on Kasprowy Wierch and in the Valley of Five Polish Ponds on Saturday morning. The Tatra National Park warns that above the upper forest line, the trails are covered with snow and ice, which makes movement much more difficult and increases the risk of dangerous falls.

Avalanche danger – first degree

Currently above 1600 m above sea level the first, lowest level of avalanche danger applies. The snow cover is generally stable, but triggering an avalanche is possible with heavy additional load, especially on very steep slopes.

The services warn that small and medium-sized avalanches may also occur spontaneously, especially when heavy snowfall is forecast.

Only for experienced tourists - necessary equipment and skills

TPN appeals that trips to higher parts of the mountains should only be planned by people with experience in winter mountain tourism. It is necessary to have appropriate equipment - crampons, ice ax, helmet and avalanche ABC (detector, probe, shovel).

The ability to use this equipment is equally important. Slipping on frozen snow or ice may end tragically, naturalists warn.

The Tatra Volunteer Emergency Service emphasizes that the forecast heavy snowfall may quickly worsen the avalanche situation. Before each trip to the mountains, it is worth checking current weather and avalanche reports and realistically assessing your skills and preparation.