Backcountry information has been limited. Wet slide activity is linked to rain intensities and the freezing level. Both are a bit of a guess. Be aware of your surroundings. Note changes in rainfall amounts, the temperature and sun. Be reactive to the changing conditions.
Rain is forecast. The sun is set to appear after lunch. Be on the lookout for rafting, roller balling and pinwheels. Terrain traps and run-out zones will need to be avoided. Try not be goal focused. Change your plans as conditions change.
Wind-slab will be building as the freezing level lowers. Be careful in and around complex terrain. Above 2000 m is where you care and evaluation is required. With precip land freezing levels unreliable, decision-making sits with you.
Some lose wet activity has been noted. Precipitation levels were lighter than forecast.
The snowpack became moist below 2000 m. With cold overnight temps expect a breakable crust on all aspects. Any new snow will be at those higher elevations. Forecast rain/snow levels have been less than forecast. With the high freezing level we can expect wet slide activity. Timing and the size of events again a little unknown. Pay particular attention of slopes that lead to terrain traps. Be aware of avalanche run out zones.
Showers easing and becoming less frequent by afternoon, sunny periods increasing. Strong NW winds will ease as they turn W this afternoon. The freezing level lowering to 1700 m.
A high freezing level. No real issues today.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
