The rime surface remains the primary hazard. Extensive areas of rime exist above 1600 metres elevation. A loose wet avalanche problem may develop on steep isolated slopes. The weather is settled over the next 24 hours, with moderate winds and showers tomorrow, the 23rd of July. Expect the weather to deteriorate over the next few days.
A loose wet avalanche problem may develop. The weather is moving into a transitional phase with showers and sunny periods possible. Steep slopes lacking support will be the locations of concern. Recommend staying alert to signs such as increased foot and ski penetration, roller ball activity below cliff bands. All point to surface instability.
No human-triggered or naturally triggered avalanches have been reported or observed over the past 24 hours.
Very little precipitation has affected the snowpack over the past 24 hours. Snowpack stability remains good with no significant weaknesses at present. The main characteristic of the current snowpack remains the presence of impenetrable rime formations. These surface deposits are dangerous and unforgiving, particularly on the south and west-facing slopes. The rime formations are resistant to saturation by rain and to an extent solar effect, and they may take considerable time to break down. The current snowline is approximately 1600 metres. The estimated threshold of snow cover that buries bed surface irregularities is slightly higher at around 1700 metres.
Thursday the 23rd of July will have a few showers. The winds will be light to moderate south-westerly, tending westerly over the next 24 hours. The freezing level is at about 2100 metres. A ridge of high pressure lies over the North Island today, while a front will move north up the South Island and weaken. Another front approaches Fiordland from the west later today, then crosses the South Island tomorrow as the ridge moves away to the east.
Rime crust on southern slopes is slick, hard, and dangerous. Fingers of rime can fail when impacted by rapid warming. This type of ice fall can be random and dangerous. Recommend a vigilant mindset to your surroundings. These conditions require a high level of skill and competence. The consequences of a fall and slide can be severe, as there are many hazards, such as exposed rocks and cliff bands. Recommend carrying the appropriate gear, including boots that support and fit crampons and an ice axe. Mount Taranaki is highly exposed to weather patterns coming from multiple directions, which significantly affects the snowpack and surface conditions in a unique and volatile manner. Rime and rain events are frequent, and the rime ice can be robust and impenetrable; even experienced climbers may struggle with these conditions.
High
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
