The weather has been volatile over the past few days with rain/snow and gale force North West winds.
If you venture into the backcountry on Wednesday adopt a very cautious, investigative approach.
Gale North West winds and rain/snow are forecast. Wind Slab development is likely especially, on slopes facing North East through to South West above about 1700m. Avoid ridge line entry points, convex rolls and other steep terrain if you encounter stiff, wind driven snow.
Loose Wet avalanche activity is a possibility on any aspect below about 1600m. If you find the snow pack is badly rain affected you would be wise to put your touring plans on hold.
Observations have been hamper over the past 48 hours by a North/North West storm.
If you see evidence of avalanches in the back country please enter a public observation.
There has been a significant amount of rain/snow over the past 24 hours (54 mm in the Albert Burn). Less rain/snow has fallen further East (20mm). New snow will be landing on a shallow, weak snow pack. Buried rime crusts and facets (weak, sugary forms) have been found. Crust and facet layers will be tested over the next few days as the load sitting on them increases.
Wednesday - rain possibly heavy at times. Snow down to 1100m. North West gales easing during the day but rising again in the evening. Freezing level - 1400m.
Limited sliding danger at present.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
