Rain/snow and gale force winds are forecast. Dangerous avalanche conditions are likely to exist
Back country travel is not recommended on Friday.
Head to your local ski field for a day in bounds.
Deposits of Wind Slab are likely to exist. Slopes facing North East through to South West above about 1700m will be particularly avalanche prone. Wait for the weather to improve and the snow pack to settle out.
The snowpack below about 1800m is likely to be badly rain affected. Loose Wet avalanche activity is a possibility. These slides could occur on any aspect. Give the pack time to drain and refreeze.
Observations have been hampered over the past 24 hours by a North West storm.
If you see evidence of avalanches in the back country please enter a Public Observation.
A significant amount of new snow is likely over the next 24 hours. Prior to the most recent storm, the snow pack was mostly stable. Having said that, facets and depth hoar (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.
Friday - mostly cloudy with periods of rain in the afternoon. Snow is possible to low levels (500m). Severe gale North West winds turning South/South West and easing. Freezing level - 1800m dropping to 1100m.
Fresh snow will reduce the sliding danger. However, keep in mind that the underlying snowpack remains shallow with many thinly covered rocks.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
