Avalanche forecast

Nelson Lakes

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory
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Avalanche danger

High Alpine · above 1,800 m
3 · Considerable
Alpine · 1,200 m–1,800 m
2 · Moderate
Sub Alpine · below 1,200 m
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Highlights

The avalanche hazard is considerable, but this only applies to a small region of the park above 2100 meters. Above 2100m we expect pockets of wind-loaded snow and wind slabs to have formed. More snow and rain at lower elevations are forecast for tomorrow, increasing the likelihood of loose wet avalanches.

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Wet

    • All elevations
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1.5

    An increase in freezing level will result in loose wet avalanches running on all aspects below 1900m. Rain on snow is possible.

  • Wind Slabs

    • All elevations
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1

    New snow accompanied by strong winds will result in wind slabs forming above 1900 meters on aspects lee of the NW.

Mountain Weather

Showers turning to rain in the afternoon, possibly heavy. Snow to 1700 metres from afternoon.

Sliding Danger

Snow now covers all the main passes and tramping routes. Sliding into rock is a potential hazard. Ice axe and crampons should be part of your winter gear.

Forecast Confidence

Moderate

  • We are uncertain about forecast precipitation amounts.
  • We are uncertain due to variable freezing levels.

Recent Avalanche Activity

Suspect a loose wet avalanche cycle to have occurred with rain and warm temperatures.

Current Snowpack Conditions

Up to 20cm of new snow, accompanied by strong winds above 2000 m on the western side of the range. To the east, rain has fallen as high at 2100m causing a rapid settlement of the previous snowpack.

New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)

Regions covered