Danger ratings are low, but always be on the lookout for wind slabs at higher elevations and weak overhanging cornices.
Watch for strong sunshine creating wet surface snow in southern areas near Mt Arrowsmith that have received recent snow.
Pockets of wind slabs may be found at higher elevations from recent easterly winds. Look for wind affected snow near ridgelines and around mid slope rollovers - recent winds have varied throughout the island.
Weak cornices may also be found on many aspects. Cornice falls are more likely as temperatures warm each day, or when strong sunshine is present.
SATURDAY NIGHT: Cloudy with light southeasterly winds. 2-10 cm of snow expected. Freezing levels drop to 500 m.
SUNDAY: A mix of sun and cloud with moderate southeasterly winds. Freezing levels rise to 1200 m. Isolated flurries are expected to bring trace amounts.
MONDAY: Snow begins early in the morning with 10-40 cm expected, favouring western terrain, freezing levels reach 1300 m. Strong southeast winds.
TUESDAY: Cloudy with continued light snowfall bringing up to 10 cm over the day. Freezing levels reach 1000 m. Moderate to strong southerly winds.
No new avalanches have been reported. Periods of strong sunshine in many areas have produced pinwheeling and small point releases this week. Recent MIN reports suggest great conditions can be found on shaded, sheltered slopes. Check out this MIN report on recent conditions in the Beadnell area, or the Mt Cain area in this MIN report.
Observations are limited at this time of year, so please consider posting to the Mountain Information Network.
Spring convection has delivered highly variable amounts of storm snow above a melt freeze crust found on sun affected slopes. Periods of sun may soften or break down the crust throughout the day where it exists on the surface. Wind affected snow can be found mainly on west facing slopes at treeline and above, from recent easterly winds. However local wind patterns may have varied.
A widespread and supportive crust is now buried 30-80 cm deep. Reports suggest this crust is currently bonding well with the layers around it.
The mid and lower snowpack is considered strong at this time, consisting of hard snow and melt freeze crusts.
