New Zealand · New Zealand Avalanche Advisory · part of New Zealand
Avalanche danger
Forecast issued 2 days ago · valid to Aug 29
Published by New Zealand Avalanche Advisory
Rain affected snowpack on lower elevations below 1800m with new snow above 1800m.
The primary problem is the rain-affected snowpack below 1800m due to the 70mm received overnight. As temperatures increase during the day and we receive more passing showers, this will add to the chance of wet snow avalanches as more free water percolates in the snowpack. Care will be needed around all steep slopes in this elevation band whilst watching for early warning signs, such as snow-balling, that slopes have lost cohesion.
The upper mountain has received new snow with this weather system. This means there will be some isolated areas of wind slab that will have formed on the upper reaches. Slope position to the wind will be key given the shape of the upper mountain on how and where you may find areas of wind slab. Use caution negotiating these upper slopes. Remember, any slope that has been exposed to the wind will also be firm.
High
No observations. Please report any public observations
70mm of precipitation over the last 12 hours, falling as snow above 1800 m. A very saturated snowpack exists below 1800m which has lost cohesion across all aspects. Above 2000 m, isolated areas of wind slab may exist on Easterly aspects; this will depend on slope shape relative to the wind.
Passing showers with moderate Westerly winds for saturday.
General cuation advised as some areas of slick terrain will still exist.
New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZ Mountain Safety Council)
