Surface conditions remain unforgiving with severe consequences. An icy rime surface exists above 1600 metres elevation, mostly on south-facing slopes. Loose wet avalanche activity will be possible as rain showers continue to affect the surface snow. The weather will be changeable with showers and northwest winds over the next 24 hours. Visibility will be limited at times.
Loose wet avalanche activity will increase as rain breaks down the snow surface structure. Rain showers to the higher elevations are expected over the next 24 hours. Loose wet avalanche activity cannot be ruled out on steep, unsupported slopes. The surface penetrability and rain intensity will be higher on north-facing slopes.
No natural or human-triggered avalanche activity has been observed or reported over the previous 24 hours.
Surface rime is the primary feature of the snowpack currently and is dangerous. The rime formations will be resistant to saturation by rain and may take time to break down. Rain over the past few days has lifted the snow line and eroded the snowpack. The current snowline is at approximately 1600 metres, with an estimated threshold slightly higher at around 1700 metres. This threshold indicates the minimum snow cover needed to cover bed surface irregularities, where avalanches can run free.
Thursday, the 16th of July, will have a few showers. The winds are moderate north-westerly. The freezing level is about 2300 metres above sea level. Disturbed north westerlies cover the country today, Wednesday, while a shallow low and its associated front over the Tasman Sea move east across the South Island. Another front approaches the far south of the South Island from the southwest tonight. Both features move northeast over the country and weaken tomorrow. Then a south-westerly flow develops.
Rime crust on southern aspects is slick, hard, and unforgiving. These types of conditions demand a high level of skill and competency. The consequences of a fall and slide will be severe. Plenty of hazards, such as exposed rocks and cliff bands, exist. It is essential to carry the appropriate gear, crampons, and an ice axe. Taranaki has a high exposure to weather features from multiple directions. Snowpack and surface conditions reflect this in a unique and volatile way. Rime events, rain events are frequent. The rime ice can be robust and impenetrable; even an experienced climber will find the conditions challenging. Read surface conditions and make decisions early; avoid complacency.
Low
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
