Storm slab and wind slab will develop as the incoming storm system effects the region over the next 24hrs, the hazard will form on all North west facing slopes. Poor visibility and weather conditions will make back country terrain travel challenging. We expect blizzard conditions developing tonight and continuing for the next 24hrs.
Wind slabs are likely to develop above 1800 metres over the next 24hrs. As start zones continue to load sensitivity and size will increase. Natural triggers such as rock and icefall will be likely.
No avalanche activity has been reported or observed over the past 24 hours.
The snowpack is being effected by light rain at the lower elevations with snowfall up higher. Wind slabs currently exist on southern aspects and are gaining strength. The current threshold is sitting at 2100 meters. We anticipate this to lower with the incoming storm system.
Rain, possibly heavy in the morning, then easing in the afternoon. Snow lowering to 900 metres in the morning, then lifting above the summit in the afternoon. Southeasterly gale 70 km/h rising to severe gale 95 km/h early morning then easing to southerly gale 75 km/h in the evening. Over the next 24hrs the freezing level will lower from 1800 metres, to 1300 metres Thursday afternoon. A deep low northeast of New Zealand moves slowly east today, bringing strong southeast flow over central New Zealand, while a cold front reaches the lower South Island. Tomorrow, a ridge builds over the South Island, while the strong southeast flow over central and northern New Zealand starts to ease.
Exposed slopes will be hard and icy, terrain travel will require good technique with proper equipment.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
