Avalanche Forecast

Moderate

Over the weekend, avalanche activity was limited to loose dry sluffing and small (size 1) rider-triggered wind slabs.

50 to 80 cm of snow sits over a widespread crust. At upper elevations, dry snow has been redistributed by strong winds, exposing the crust in places, and depositing deep drifts in lees.

Below 1400 m, surfaces are moist and/or crusty.

The remainder of the snowpack is thoroughly settled and bonded.

Snowpack depths at treeline are now about 130 -180 cm on the north and south island, closer to 250 to 300 cm on the central island.

Monday night

Partly cloudy with isolated flurries but no significant accumulation. 10 to 20 km/h variable ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3°C.

Tuesday

Cloudy with flurries bringing around 5 cm of new snow. 30 to 50 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -3°C.

Wednesday

Cloudy with flurries bringing around 5 cm of new snow. 20 to 40 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2°C.

Thursday

Cloudy with 5 to 10 cm of new snow. 40 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0°C. Freezing level 1000-1500 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Pay attention to the wind; once it starts to blow, sensitive wind slabs are likely to form.
• Be alert to conditions that change with elevation, aspect, and exposure to wind.
• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.