The rime surface remains the primary hazard. Extensive areas of rime exist above 1600 metres elevation. Rime formations impacted by rapid warming can fail. Ice fall will be a possibility. Be vigilant to the changing conditions. A loose wet avalanche problem may develop on the solar aspects. The weather is settled over the next 24 hours with moderate winds and fine periods. Showers possible first thing tomorrow, the 22nd of July.
A loose wet avalanche problem may develop on slopes being impacted by solar radiation. High-angle sun-affected slopes during the warmest period of the day will be the locations of concern. Any new snow will react negatively to the solar effect. Be alert to signs such as increasing foot and ski penetration and roller- ball activity below cliff bands.
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. The main characteristic of the current snowpack remains the presence of impenetrable rime formations and slick surface conditions. 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. Snowpack observation from a few days ago will still be relevant. These observations were at 1550 metres elevation on a northeast aspect. This is a snapshot of one location showing a consolidated moist snowpack with a density inversion. 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.
Tomorrow, the 22nd of July, will have a few showers, then clearing in the afternoon, becoming fine. The winds are light to moderate westerly, tending south-westerly tomorrow. The freezing level is about 1800 metres elevation, rising to 2300 metres over the next 24 hours. A ridge of high pressure lies over the North Island today while a front affects the lower South Island. The ridge remains over the North Island on Wednesday while the front moves north and weakens, then another front approaches the South Island from the west late Wednesday.
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. Be vigilant of the surrounding conditions. 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. It is essential to carry the appropriate gear, including 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.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
