October's Snowfall Continues to Warrant Avalanche Warning

The Southern Alps of New Zealand have been blanketed with snow this week, making it an ideal time for ski touring. However, as spring approaches, it's also a time for heightened avalanche activity. The New Zealand Avalanche Advisory Service (NZAAS), managed by the Outdoor Safety Council, is warning adventurers to stay vigilant and informed.

As of now, forecasting for all 13 regions is still underway, and an avalanche advisory can be found on the NZAAS website, avalanche.net.nz. Ten out of the 13 regions are currently on 'considerable' avalanche danger, indicating dangerous avalanche conditions where conservative decision-making is essential. These regions include Queenstown, Aspiring, Ohau, Aoraki/Mt Cook, Craigieburn Range, Nelson Lakes, Arthur's Pass, Wanaka, and Fiordland Tongariro.

Even when the avalanche forecast is 'low', avalanches are still possible. That's why it's crucial to travel safely in avalanche terrain, which requires the right skills, equipment, and forecast. For those who need a refresher, a free online course is available, or you can find practical courses taught by professionals.

To help you get started, the Alpine Skills Series videos offer an introduction to crampon and ice axe use. The public is also encouraged to submit public observations of avalanches and snowpack conditions at avalanche.net.nz.

Key alpine regions like Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Aspiring see a huge boost in activity during this period, making them particularly busy and potentially risky. However, regions like Mt Hutt and Two Thumbs are at 'moderate', with Taranaki on 'low'. Regions won't close until the risk of avalanches has reduced further.

For any other queries, you can contact Communications Advisor Rebekah Wilson at rebekah.wilson@our website. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when venturing into avalanche terrain.

Spring is an active time for avalanches, and between 1999 and 2018, 40% of avalanche fatalities in NZ occurred between November to April. So, let's enjoy the snowy landscapes responsibly and make the most of the mountaineering season, which runs from October through to January. Stay safe, and happy adventures!