Special Avalanche Warning Issued: Critical Reminder for Caution After Significant Avalanche Incidents
Media Release
Following multiple, serious avalanche incidents this week, NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is urging backcountry snow enthusiasts to exercise extreme caution, with a spell of good weather forecast over the weekend.
We have a unique combination of a complex snowpack, incoming fine weather and anticipated high interest in backcountry skiing and snowboarding. This has prompted our special warning for extra caution,– says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley.
MSC is reminding backcountry enthusiasts not to allow the good weather and excitement of fresh snow to hinder good decision-making this weekend.
“In the current high uncertainty, high consequence environment, the best course of action is to avoid avalanche terrain entirely, unless you have carried out a thorough investigation and have full confidence in the stability of the snowpack.”
Since the beginning of September, an intense and prolonged cycle of westerly storm systems has delivered significant snowfall to alpine areas throughout the South Island, accompanied by high winds and fluctuating freezing levels.
“As a result of unseasonal, extended spring storm systems, we now have a highly complex and rapidly changing snowpack throughout most of the Southern Alps,” says Daisley.
“The storm systems, which are far from typical for this time of year in New Zealand, have created a variable and challenging snowpack. With this recent changeable weather, comes the potential for dangerous weak layers within the snowpack, which can persist for days after the last snowfall.
“The recent serious avalanche incidents, in both the Wānaka and mid-Canterbury backcountry, highlight the substantial dangers associated with backcountry travel in avalanche terrain at present.
“We highly recommend that all backcountry snow enthusiasts stay updated with the latest avalanche advisory for their region by following NZAA Instagram and monitoring avalanche.net.nz. This is a time for seriously heightened awareness and care in the backcountry. Proper preparation and informed decision-making are critical.”
Additional information
Are you #AvalancheReady?
People heading into the New Zealand back country, are encouraged to:
Hikers and trampers can find the avalanche forecast under track alerts on Plan My Walk.
NZ Avalanche Advisory
The NZ Avalanche Advisory, which is operated by NZ Mountain Safety Council, is New Zealand's official backcountry avalanche forecasting network. The NZAA provides avalanche forecasts for 13 regions across the country that advise recreational users of avalanche danger. Forecasts are written by a network of snow safety professionals based on the current snow conditions, information provided by commercial operators, public observations and the weather forecast.