Avalanche forecast

Tongariro

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory
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Avalanche danger

High Alpine · above 2,300 m
2 · Moderate
Alpine · 1,800 m–2,300 m
1 · Low
Sub Alpine · below 1,800 m
1 · Low
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Highlights

Wind slabs may form at higher elevations on south and east aspects. Assessment of the changing conditions as you travel is recommended. Identify terrain traps and loading slopes. The weather deteriorates over the next 24 hours. Snow showers develop with increasing west and northwest winds.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • All elevations
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1.5

    Wind slab formation will become a possibility as snow showers develop over the next 24 hours. Winds will transport new snow loading to east and south aspects. Snowfall accumulation will be minimal, and wind slab volume low. Wind slab deposits may form near sheltering terrain features and catchments. Triggering these wind slabs is more likely on steep, unsupported slopes. It's advisable to approach any freshly loaded slope with caution, especially those that are convex-shaped and positioned high in the path. Any avalanche can have a poor outcome if terrain traps are nasty.

Recent Avalanche Activity

Debris evidence of a significant avalanche was observed today, 21082026. This event most likely occurred during the last 24-hour period of the storm cycle on 19082026. North aspect of Tahurangi peak running towards the crater lake. The start zone elevation is about 2600 metres.

Current Snowpack Conditions

Very little precipitation has fallen over the past 24 hours, affecting the snowpack. Turoa received about 30-40 cm of new snow above 1600 metres during the last storm, but strengthening and consolidation have occurred. These wind slab deposits are gaining strength. In the northwest, isolated pockets of wind slab also exist. The gale southerly winds have stripped exposed slopes, leaving a rain crust at the surface. Threshold is now about 1800 metres in the northwestern areas. Snow cover will exist on Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro. Snow and ice are present on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Alpine skills and equipment are essential to hike this track. If doing the Tongariro Crossing, you will be traveling over snow and ice with exposure to start zones at threshold. Recommend alpine gear and take avalanche precautions. Threshold in the southwest remains at an elevation of about 1600 metres.

Mountain Weather

On Saturday the 22nd of August, a few showers will develop in the morning. The winds are moderate westerly, tending northwest throughout the day. The freezing level is 2600 metres, lowering to 1800 metres in the morning. High pressure moves north over the North Island today, while a strong northwest flow develops over the south of the South Island. The northwest flow strengthens across southern and central areas of New Zealand tomorrow, and a series of fronts move over the South Island from the southwest.

Sliding Danger

Strong winds can strip exposed slopes, making the surfaces slick and icy. Numerous hazards, including exposed rocks and cliff bands, exist. It is recommended to carry an ice axe and crampons when venturing into the backcountry. Having strong alpine skills and competence is essential for navigating over slick surfaces, as the consequences can be severe.

Forecast Confidence

Moderate

  • We are confident due to a stable weather pattern.
  • We are uncertain about forecast snowfall amounts.

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)

Regions covered