Hey crew ! It is not an issue if you trigger an avalanche while out in the backcountry, we are not the fun police ! But please let someone know you are safe ! A lot of time, effort and risk was spent yesterday trying to make sure no one was buried.
Plenty of snow transport yesterday, more today. Wind-slab conditions will continue to build. Winds may change direction, decision-making may become difficult. If you are keen today perhaps a late start. Be very careful in and around complex terrain. Avalanche may be in a small range. However, an event could push over something large and painful.
Perhaps a burst of sun this afternoon. With a weak re-freeze overnight the pack may become moist. Things like roller-balling and pin wheeling may be possible.
We have minimal concerns about a sliding danger. However, patches do exist.
Moderate
Little change in snowpack strength yesterday. Plenty of wind transport at ridge crest across the region. The pack becoming moist on N facing aspects. Today, snow showers forecast to around 1200 m early morning and gale W winds. Expect wind-slab conditions to continue developing. Remember, many hidden hazards sit just below a thin snowpack.
Yesterday a full scale avalanche rescue was initiated with search dogs from Wanaka, police and the amazing crew from the remarkables patrol. Conditions were challenging for all. The site was cleared and no one was caught or buried. Nth facing aspects saw roller-balling. Polar aspects remained cold. Plenty of wind transport at ridge-lines.
Snow showers clearing after lunch. Winds from the W at gale strength, turning SW and easing this afternoon. The freezing level lowering to around 1000 m. Glimpses of sun during the afternoon.
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
