a hot start to April in the Ortler group

Just back from touring in the Ortler group.  The days from April 7 - 10 saw temperatures rise to 27 degrees in the valley in the afternoon.   There were several large avalanches over the track close to the Branca hut after 16:30 on the Friday and Saturday.

This tour was moved a week or two earlier than originally planned due to a commitment.  Even so there was less snow cover at hut level than expected, and trip duration was shortened by the day as the snow became very slushy in the sun.  After April 11 the forecasters predict more snow this week, with colder temperatures coming in.