Incoming new snow over a very firm surface.
Time to pick your lines carefully and look to see how that new to old interface is. If unsure, stick to lower angles and non loaded slopes.
Storm slab is likely to have developed, particularly on north eastern through to western slopes above 1300m.
Potentially more of a consideration in the north and west of the forecast area.
With incoming new snow over a previous firm layer. Expect multiple small Loose Dry releases out of steeper terrain.
A Large Natural avalanche ran to valley floor on the 32st or 1st (see photo). Not much else observed. Nothing reported in the last 72hrs. But expect some natural activity during the weekend.
Your observations from the back country are always appreciated via our Public Obs link
20 cm of new snow fell on the 23rd-24th, accompanied by severe NW gale-force winds. The strong winds stripped snow from west-facing slopes and exposed ridge crests. Then a clear, but sometimes windy period and 15-20cm overnight 26th into the 27th morning. Much of this blown away or relocated mid slope to West to northern slopes.
There are still some near to ground facets being observed, otherwise the previous to this storm snow pack appeared to have settled well. There was anywhere between 150cm and 50cm out there over the ground on Monday, less now with the previous winds.
With a very shallow snowpack and observed near-to-ground faceting, expect more to develop. Not currently enough loading to be a concern, but something to watch. There has also been a melt-freeze cycle occur just prior to this latest storm, which could bring in up to 25cm new snow.
Scattered rain, mainly in the morning. Persistent and heavier toward the Divide. Snow to 1400 metres but 1000 metres about Mackenzie Basin.
Moderate easterly swapping to to south west winds, and a freezing level around 1500m.
Very firm snow conditions are present on west-facing slopes near ridgelines where it has been wind blasted. These hard surfaces may present a sliding hazard, particularly on steep terrain and may be cunningly hidden under new snow.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
