Wind slab avalanche danger will increase on south and east-facing aspects at upper elevations due to strong winds and snow from the northwest.
Care will be required on south and eastern aspects at upper elevations new snow is redistributed by strong northwest winds. Care will increasingly be required particularly at upper elevation.
None observed in extensive aerial on the 6th. Please provide a public observation if out and about above the snow line using the link below.
Consistent snow cover exists above 1800 meters. Below 2000 meters, the snow may overlie a hard rain crust. Ongoing strong to gale-force winds at upper elevation has promoted wind slab danger. Lower-density snow has been noted below wind-transported snow on east-facing aspects on the 6th. The bond between the new wind-transported snow and the previous snow surfaces is not that strong in places. This should strengthen with time. Few observations exist at this time at upper elevation, so caution will be required if venturing to the high alpine. Further snow loading during this storm during this weekend will increase wind slab danger.
Periods of snow down to 1500m. Up to 30cm of snow forecast for Travers Saddle during the next 24 hours. Wind increasing from 40 to 75 km per hour from the northwest. Freezing level 1700m.
Some wind-scoured slopes may be hard. Ice axe and crampons will need to be carried for mountain travel.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
