New snow and strong winds over the next few days will increase avalanche danger. Caution will be required as snow volumes increase towards the weekend.
Strong winds and snow will increase during the day causing moderate danger and possibly considerable danger by evening. Care will be required on south and eastern aspects as the new snow is redistributed and accumulates due to wind transport.
No observations. Please provide a public observation if out and about above the snow line using the link below.
Reasonably consistent snow cover exists above 1800 meters. Below 2000 meters, the snow may overlie a hard rain crust. Below 1700 meters, the snowpack is mostly below threshold (not enough snow to trigger an avalanche). The current snowpack is expected to have low avalanche danger, but few field observations have been possible. With new snow forecast over the next few days, uncertainty over the strength of the current snowpack will increase, so conservative decision-making will be required as more snow accumulates.
Snow showers become heavy and lower to 1400m late in the day. Wind rising from gale force northwesterly to severe gale by evening. Freezing level 1700m
North-facing aspects in particular may be hard. Sliding into rock is a potential hazard. Ice axe and crampons should be part of your winter gear.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
