Backcountry Explorers Urged to Awareness on Avalanche Threats

The New Zealand winter season has kicked off with a bang, as heavy snowfall blankets the Southern Alps. The latest snowfall has made the backcountry slopes particularly dangerous, with several regions, including Tongariro in the North Island, Fiordland, and Wanaka, gearing up to begin forecasting over the coming days.

The New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZAA), owned by MSC, has started forecasting early this season. The NZAA is responsible for providing daily avalanche forecasts for 13 regions across the country. According to their latest updates, Arthur's Pass, Craigieburn Range, Aoraki/Mt Cook, the new Aspiring region, and the Arthur's Pass National Park are currently classified as 'high' avalanche danger areas.

This means that very dangerous avalanche conditions exist where travel is not recommended. The new Aspiring forecast region now has more tailored avalanche forecasting, including Mt Aspiring National Park, Mt Brewster, the Treble Cone backcountry, and Main Divide areas. In contrast, Nelson Lakes is classified as 'considerable' avalanche danger, indicating that natural and human-triggered avalanches are likely.

Due to the time of year, avalanche forecasters have limited conditions data available. This lack of data means there will be an extra layer of uncertainty for a few weeks. Ski areas, guiding operations, and heli ski companies are not yet fully operational, which means help would be further away if you get into trouble.

In light of these conditions, the MSC Chief Executive has advised that there needs to be a grace period for fresh snow to settle in the mountains. Conservative decision-making is necessary, according to Daisley. The NZAA forecasters will update the regional forecasts on avalanche.net.nz as new information becomes available.

As several new regions will begin forecasting over the coming days, it's essential to stay informed and make informed decisions when venturing into the backcountry. The NZAA advises that if you are planning a trip into the mountains, check the avalanche forecast for your region regularly and consider the current conditions before heading out. Stay safe and enjoy the winter season responsibly.