A top up for Wednesday! Give the cloud time to clear out and enjoy a fine day.
Be wary of increasing FAFL in the afternoon and avoid any rocky, steep terrain on the NW 1/4.
Wind Slabs will be possible to trigger at upper elevation bands across the NE 1/2 above 1800m. Obviously wind loaded terrain, blowing snow and recent avalanche activity are all indicators of heightened danger.
Loose Wet avalanche will be likely in steep, rocky terrain on the NW 1/2. These will only be a problem in the afternoon as sun and an increase in temperatures impact recent snow. Look for roller balling or recent avalanche activity as a key sign of instability.
1x Size 1 Wind Slab was explosive triggered by Mt Hutt Patrol on Monday morning. This was in a steep, unsupported SE facing slope at 1900m.
25cm of recent snowfall has bonded well to the old snow surface. This new snow has been impacted by strong Southerly winds at upper elevation bands and solar input on the Northerly 1/2. There are wind deposits up to 30cm deep in lee or cross loaded terrain features. Prior to this the snowpack resembled one you would see mid September or October.
Up to 5cm of snowfall is forecast overnight Tuesday and clear early Wednesday. The winds are set to continue from the SW. FAFL is forecast to rise as high as 2100m in the afternoon.
No sharps required! Surfaces will be soft and no sliding hazard exists.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
