The weather and snow conditions have been changing constantly over the past few days.
Multiple avalanche problems have developed over the past 48 hours (Wet Slab, Loose Wet, Wind Slab and Storm Slab).
The danger rating will be HIGH on Friday.
Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended.
Snow to low levels (500m) over the past 24 hours. Gale force winds are forecast to shift from the North to the West on Friday. Wind Slab and Storm Slab are likely to exist on a range of aspects. Wait for conditions to improve before heading into the back country.
Periods of heavy rain are likely to have left the snow pack badly rain affected below about 2000m. Wet slide activity (Loose Wet and Wet Slab) is probable and could occur on any aspect. The pack needs time to drain and refreeze.
Limited information currently exists regarding recent backcountry avalanche activity. A widespread cycle of natural avalanches (Wet Slab, Loose Wet and Wind Slab) is likely to have occurred over the past 48 hours.
If you see evidence of avalanches in the back country please enter a Public Observation.
A significant amount of rain and snow over the past 48 hours with at least 100mm in the Albert Burn. Rain to 2000m on Wednesday before the freezing level began to drop. Recent snowfall has been redistributed by gales from several directions (Northerly gales on Thursday and Westerly gales on Friday). Facets (weak, sugary forms) have been found in places. These pockets of questionable strength appear to be isolated and are most likely to exist on slopes facing East to South. Heavy rain and snow will test any weaknesses in the snowpack.
Friday - periods of rain - heavy in the West. Snow down to 1200m in the morning. Rain easing to showers in the afternoon. Gale Northerlies turning gale Westerly. Freezing level - 2200m dropping to 1600m AM then 1300m in the evening.
Rain/snow and strong winds from multiple directions over the past few days. Also, the freezing level has been changing constantly. Be prepared to encountered highly variable surface conditions ( including fresh snow, refrozen wet snow and areas stripped back to slick crusts). Recommend carrying ski crampons and/or an ice axe and crampons.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
