The weather and snow conditions are changing constantly at present.
Multiple avalanche problems are likely to have developed over the past 24 hours (Wet Slab, Loose Wet, Wind Slab and Storm Slab).
The danger rating will be HIGH on Thursday and travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended.
Periods of heavy rain are likely to have left the snow pack badly rain affected below about 2000m. Wet slide activity (Loose Wet and Wet Slab) is probable and could occur on any aspect. The pack needs time to drain and refreeze.
Snow to low levels (500m) is possible as the freezing level drops. Gale force wind have shifted from the North West to the North/North East over the past 24 hours. Wind Slab and Storm Slab are likely to have formed on a range of aspects. Wait for conditions to improve before heading into the back country.
Rain/snow and strong winds from multiple directions over the past few days. Also, the freezing level has been changing constantly. Be prepared to encountered highly variable surface conditions ( including fresh snow, refrozen wet snow and areas stripped back to slick crusts). Recommend carrying ski crampons and/or an ice axe and crampons.
Moderate
Limited information currently exists regarding recent backcountry avalanche activity. A cycle of natural avalanches (Wet Slab, Loose Wet and Wind Slab) is likely to have occurred. Control work at Treble Cone on Monday produced multiple size 1 Wind Slab results on East facing slopes.
If you see evidence of avalanches in the back country please enter a Public Observation.
A significant amount of rain and snow over the past 24 hours with at least 60mm in the Albert Burn. Rain to 2000m on Wednesday before the freezing level began to drop. Recent snowfall has been redistributed by gales from several directions (North West, West and most recently North East). Facets (weak, sugary forms) have been found in places. These pockets of questionable strength appear to be isolated and are most likely to exist on slopes facing East to South. Heavy rain and snow will test any weaknesses in the snowpack.
Thursday - rain heavy at times in the West. Snow down to 500m. North to North East gales rising to severe gale force at upper elevations. Freezing level - 1300m dropping to 900m AM but lifting to 2100m PM.
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
