Meaning of danger level 5 (very high danger)
Road, rail and air travel may come to a complete standstill. There is a high risk of road accidents due to icy conditions, snow drifts and poor visibility. Branches may break off under the weight of the snowload and entire trees may be toppled.The power supply and telephone communications network may break down completely.
Recommendations for action
- Avoid forests and areas with a lot of trees – there is a risk of branches breaking off and trees falling.
- Stay informed of the driving conditions (e.g. via radio, by calling the 163 telephone service, through television or online media).
- Avoid driving if possible.
- Drive carefully on the road due to the major risk of accidents.
- Be aware of rooftop avalanches.
- Check the daily avalanche bulletin and the additional information provided by the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF.
Additional information
- Heavy/intensive snowfall in lowland areas of German-speaking Switzerland: >50 cm/24h; >70 cm/48h; >90 cm/72h
- Heavy/intensive snowfall in lowlands of Western Switzerland and south of the Alps: >50 cm/24h; >70 cm/48h; >90 cm/72h
- Heavy/intensive snowfall in the mountains: >90 cm/24h; >140 cm/48h; >180 cm/72h