Recent weather has resulted in a high degree of variability across the region so be sure to verify avalanche conditions in your area as you travel and before committing to terrain.
In northern areas, recent snow may be poorly bonded to underlying surfaces. Slabs are likely be most reactive in wind loaded terrain features.
On Sunday, several size 1-2 wind slabs were observed out of steep rocky north aspects around treeline in this great MIN report from Kitchener.
In the north island, 20-40 cm of recent snow sits on a crust that likely extends into the alpine. (Check out this MIN report from Kitchener on Sunday.) Further south, the crust may be on the surface or lightly dusted by dry snow.
The mid and lower snowpack is generally uniform, with no significant layers of concern.
Below treeline, most areas are below threshold for avalanches.
Monday night
Partly cloudy with scattered flurries bringing a trace. 40 to 50 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -8 °C. Freezing level sea level.
Tuesday
Mostly cloudy with p to 5 cm of snow. 40 to 60 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 500 m.
Wednesday
Heavy snowfall, 30 to 50 cm of new snow. 80 to 100 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 1200 m.
Thursday
A mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 30 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3 °C. Freezing level 800 m.
More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.
