The rimed surface remains a concern. Extensive areas of rime exist above 1600 metres elevation, mostly on south-facing slopes. A loose wet avalanche problem may develop on the solar aspects. Clearing skies overnight. Light southeast winds over the next 24 hours, but showers and drizzle remain a possibility. A refreeze of the surface snow is likely as freezing levels hover around 2000 metres.
A loose wet avalanche problem may develop as the skies clear overnight. High-angle sun-affected slopes during the warmest period of the day will be the locations of concern. Any new snow will react negatively to the solar effect. Be alert to signs such as increased foot and ski penetration, roller ball activity.
No human or naturally triggered avalanches have been reported or observed over the past 24 hours.
Some low-volume snowfall over the past 24 hours, with light accumulation at the higher elevations, has occurred. The main characteristic of the current snowpack remains the presence of impenetrable rime formations. These surface deposits are dangerous and unforgiving, particularly on the south and west-facing slopes. The rime formations are resistant to saturation by rain and even to solar effects, and they may take considerable time to break down. Two days ago, a comprehensive snowpack observation was passed on. These observations were at 1550 metres elevation on a northeast aspect. This is a snapshot of one location showing a consolidated moist snowpack with a density inversion. The current snowline is approximately 1600 metres. The estimated threshold of snow cover that buries bed surface irregularities is slightly higher at around 1700 metres.
Today, snow showers up high and rain lower. Tomorrow, the 21st of July, will be fine, clouding over in the afternoon with patchy drizzle on the southern slopes in the evening. The winds are light southeasterly tending southernly throughout Tuesday. The freezing level is about 1800 metres elevation, rising over the next 24 hours to 2100 metres. A complex trough over central New Zealand moves slowly across the North Island today, while a ridge builds over the country, south of the trough. Another front over the Tasman Sea moves onto the south of the South Island late in the day and across the lower South Island tomorrow.
Rime crust on southern slopes is slick, hard, and dangerous. Fingers of rime can fail when impacted by rapid warming. This type of icefall can be random and dangerous. Be vigilant of the surrounding conditions. These conditions require a high level of skill and competence. The consequences of a fall and slide can be severe, as there are many hazards, such as exposed rocks and cliff bands. It is essential to carry the appropriate gear, including crampons and an ice axe. Mount Taranaki is highly exposed to weather patterns coming from multiple directions, which significantly affects the snowpack and surface conditions in a unique and volatile manner. Rime and rain events are frequent, and the rime ice can be robust and impenetrable; even experienced climbers may struggle with these conditions.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
