A North West storm is currently battering the region.
Multiple avalanche problems (Wet Slab, Loose Wet and Wind Slab) are likely to exist.
Avoid travel in avalanche terrain on Sunday.
Periods of heavy rain are likely to saturate the snow pack. Wet slide (Wet Slab and Loose Wet) activity is probable. These failures could occur on any aspect. Wait for conditions to improve before heading into avalanche terrain.
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.
Observations have been restricted over the past 24 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 probable 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 24 hours (26mm in the Albert Burn). The pack will be rain affected (including upper elevations) with some 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.
Sunday - rain with some heavy falls. Snow down to 500m. Severe gale North West/Westerly winds. Freezing level - 1800m dropping to 900m in the morning. Rising again to 1200m in the evening.
Limited at present.
Moderate
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
