Some fresh snow and North West/Westerly gales are forecast. Pockets of Wind Slab may develop especially, at ridge top.
Be prepared to alter your plans if conditions are deteriorating.
Isolated pockets of Wind Slab may form particularly, on slopes facing East through to South above about 1700m. Stay clear of ridge line entry points and other steep unsupported slopes if you discover stiff, wind transported snow.
No back country avalanche activity reported recently. A small (size 1) Wind Slab was triggered with explosives at Treble Cone 20/7 Aspect East, Elevation 1650m.
If you see evidence of avalanches in the back country please enter a public observation.
In general, the snow pack appears stable. Relatively warm temperatures over the past few days have helped the stabilisation process. The flow of back country information is beginning to increase as more parties head out. Buried rime crusts and facets (weak, sugary forms) have been found in places. These pockets of questionable strength are most likely to exist in steep, shady areas (facing East to South). Loading over the next few days will test these layers.
Tuesday - mostly cloudy with showers possible falling as snow, down to 1500m. North West/Westerly winds rising to gale force later in the day. Freezing level - 1800m.
Be prepared to encounter very firm or icy areas. These slick surfaces are most likely to be found below about 1700m but may exist elsewhere. Many West facing slopes and ridge lines have been hammered by the wind. Carrying ski crampons and /or an ice axe and crampons is a good idea. Overall the snowpack remains shallow with many exposed rocks, open creeks and deep hollows. An uncontrolled slide could have nasty consequences.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
