Avalanche forecast

Arthur's Pass

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory
View on map

Avalanche danger

High Alpine · above 1,800 m
3 · Considerable
Alpine · 1,200 m–1,800 m
2 · Moderate
Sub Alpine · below 1,200 m
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired last month. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Winds are forecast to increase tomorrow, which in turn will increase the wind slab hazard. Combined with forecast new snow, the hazard will require good route selection skills for any backcountry travel. Consider runout zones, as the new snow totals get larger, there is enough snow on the ground now for avalanches to run into the valleys.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • All elevations
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    2

    More snow forecast tomorrow, with gale winds. Expect the storm slab hazard to stay elevated tomorrow. Good route selection required for any backcountry travel tomorrow.

  • Loose Wet

    • All elevations
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5

    If the freezing level raises, the loose wet hazard will increase at lower elevations.

Recent Avalanche Activity

Nothing reported in the last few days. If you see anything, please report it in the public observations section of the NZAA website.

Current Snowpack Conditions

30mm of rain fell today with snow above 2000m and gale NW winds. This fell on limited snow below 2000m and a variable snowpack above 2000m. Above 2000m limited snow existed before 80cm of snow fell last week which had a few dats to settle. Limited layers of concern exist within the old snow.

Mountain Weather

Rain, heavy at times with thunderstorms possible. Snow possible to 1500 metres. Winds Northwesterlies gale 75 km/h, rising to severe gale 120 km/h for a time in the afternoon and early evening. Freezing level 2000 metres.

Sliding Danger

Expect firm areas from the sun melting and then the surface refreezing at night. Crampons and ice axe a good idea for ridge travel.

Forecast Confidence

Low

  • We are uncertain about forecast snowfall amounts.

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)

Regions covered