Wind Slabs
- All elevations
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1.5
Care will be required on eastern half-aspects at upper elevations as lingering wind slab may still exist.
Avalanche forecast
View on mapNelson Lakes
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory
Avalanche danger
- High Alpine · above 1,800 m
- 2 · Moderate
- Alpine · 1,200 m–1,800 m
- 1 · Low
- Sub Alpine · below 1,200 m
- No rating
Out of date — this forecast expired 3 weeks ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.
Highlights
Wind slab avalanche danger may still exist on east-facing aspects at upper elevations due to recent strong winds.
Avalanche problems
Recent Avalanche Activity
None observed. Please provide a public observation if out and about above the snow line using the link below. Thanks to Malcolm and Jasper for recent snowpack observations. Keep up the good work!
Current Snowpack Conditions
Consistent snow cover exists above 1800 meters. Below 2000 meters, the snow may overlie a hard rain crust. Since 35 to 50 cm of new snow and ongoing strong to gale-force winds at upper elevation has promoted wind slab danger. Lower-density snow has been noted below wind-transported snow on east-facing aspects. The bond between the new wind transported snow and the previous snow surfaces is not that strong in places. This should strengthen with time. Few observations exist at this time at upper elevation, so caution will be required if venturing to the high alpine.
Mountain Weather
Cloud developing midday with the odd snow shower down to 1100m. Northwesterly winds developing during the day. Freezing level rising from 1400m to 1800m late in the day
Sliding Danger
Some wind-scoured slopes may be hard. Ice axe and crampons will need to be carried for mountain travel.
Forecast Confidence
Moderate
- We are uncertain due to a limited number of field observations.
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)