Ongoing Wind Slab development is likely as North West/ Westerly gales transport fresh snow.
If you venture into the back country on Monday very careful terrain selection and a conservative approach will be required.
Reactive Wind Slab is likely to exist on a range of aspects. However, slopes facing North through to South West above about 1700m will be particularly avalanche prone. Avoid ridge line entry points and other steep unsupported slopes if you discover deposits of stiff wind driven snow. If in doubt, choose low to moderate angled wide open slopes.
The underlying snow pack is likely to be holding a significant amount of moisture particularly, below about 1700m. Loose Wet avalanche activity is probable. If the sun appears, expect snow to start sliding off especially, on North facing slopes. If you find the pack badly rain affected, consider putting your plans on hold.
Observations have been restricted over the past 72 hours by a North West storm. A cycle of natural avalanches (Wet Slab, Loose Wet and Wind Slab) is likely to have occurred. Further natural activity is possible over the next 24 hours.
If you see evidence of avalanches in the back country please enter a Public Observation.
A significant amount of rain and snow over the past 48 hours (36mm in the Albert Burn). The pack will be rain affected (including upper elevations) with fresh snow on top. A small quantity of fresh snow August 15/16th. Snow at upper elevations 12/8 (15 - 25cm) in the West and less further East. Rain to about 1850m on the 12/8. Facets (weak, sugary forms) have been found in places. These pockets of questionable strength appear to be isolated and are most likely to exist on slopes facing East to South. Any weaknesses in the snow pack will be tested over the next couple of days.
Monday - mainly fine with perhaps a few showers. Gale to severe gale North West/Westerly winds . Freezing level - 1200m rising to 1700m AM and 2000m PM.
Rain/snow and strong Westerly winds over the weekend. Also, the freezing level has been changing constantly. Be prepared to encountered highly variable surface conditions ( including fresh snow, refrozen wet snow and areas stripped back to slick crusts). Recommend carrying ski crampons and/or an ice axe and crampons.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
