Avalanche.Net


	Avalanche Awareness in the New Zealand Backcountry Price: $26.67 + GST = $30.00 Penny Goddard's interesting and informative publication delving into the science and awareness of the avalanche terrain across Aotearoa. Launched 19 June 2008

Danger Level	Snowpack Stability	Avalanche Probability and Avalanche Trigger	Recommended Action in the Backcountry
...What...	...Why...		...What To Do...
LOW	The snowpack is generally well bonded and stable.	Natural avalanches highly unlikely. Human triggered avalanches unlikely.	Travel is generally safe. Normal caution advised.
MODERATE	The snowpack is moderately well bonded on some steep slopes, otherwise generally well bonded.	Natural avalanches unlikely. Human triggered avalanches possible.	Generally favourable conditions. Routes should be selected with care especially on steep slopes.
CONSIDERABLE	The snowpack is moderately to weakly bonded in most places.	Natural avalanches possible. Human triggered avalanches probable.	Backcountry skiing and travel should only be carried out by experienced persons able to evaluate avalanche hazards. Steep slopes of the aspect and altitude indicated should be avoided.
HIGH	The snowpack is weakly bonded in most places.	Natural and human triggered avalanches likely.	Backcountry skiing and travel should be restricted to low angled slopes; areas at the bottom of slopes may be hazardous.
EXTREME	The snowpack is generally weakly bonded and largely unstable.	Widespread natural or human triggered avalanches certain.	No backcountry skiing or travel should be undertaken.

This 'Backcountry Avalanche Advisory' is provided as a public service by the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council, Inc. It is intended as an advisory only.

Avalanche forecasting is an undertaking which requires extensive study and field observations. Those endeavouring to travel in the Southern Alps and the mountains of the North Island, do so at their own risk. We recommend travellers be well informed about current weather, snowpack and avalanche hazards. Backcountry travellers should not travel alone. All members of your party should wear a transceiver (457kHz) and know how to use it. In addition everyone should carry a shovel, and a probe. Travellers should advise someone where they are traveling, and when they will make next contact.