South Coast

The most likely place to trigger an avalanche is in a very steep gully or in wind affected terrain.

Moderate - Timing or intensity of solar radiation is uncertain on Sunday

Friday: 5-10 cm new snow expected above elevations of around 1000 m, with rain below that. Some clearing in the afternoon possible. Winds 10-20 km/h from the southwest. Saturday: Flurries. Freezing level around 1000 m. Winds light southwesterly. Sunday: Clearing with some good sunshine. Freezing level rising to 2000 m in the afternoon.

On Friday in the wake of the storm, slab avalanche conditions are most likely to exist in the following locations: a) very steep gullies; and b) on the downwind side of ridges and summits. The recent tragic fatal accident on Mt Harvey indicates the importance of moving very cautiously along corniced ridges, which could be prone to collapse at this time.

There's approximately 20-30 cm of new snow at elevations above 1200 m, with plenty of rain-soaked snow below. The new snow and accompanying southeast winds have set up slab avalanche conditions, particularly on the downwind (northerly and northeasterly) side of ridges and summits. Cornices remain large in some areas and could trigger large avalanches when they fail. Additionally, cornices present a falling hazard and should be given a wide berth while traveling on ridgetops.