Tongariro — Bollettino valanghe

No avalanche activity has been reported or observed over the previous 24 hours.                         Monday, the 1st of December, will be fine apart from a few early showers and afternoon cloud. The winds will be moderate to strong north-westerly gales at the higher elevations. The freezing level is above 3000 metres. A low moves quickly southeast across the lower South Island today, while a pair of associated fronts move east across the rest of the country. Tomorrow, a trough moves east across the upper North Island, while a ridge over the South Island weakens. On Wednesday, December 3rd, a low-pressure system moves into the region, bringing deteriorating weather.                                                                                                            An overnight refreeze is always possible despite the high freezing levels. The surface layer can become lethal once refreeze occurs, becoming slick and icy. Carrying and knowing how to use essential gear such as crampons and an ice axe is crucial. Being well-prepared can significantly reduce your risk of accidents when surface conditions are slick and dangerous.                                                                                                                     

Currently, the snowpack is old and consolidated, apart from surface instabilities created by the sun or rain. The snowpack has been unaffected by precipitation over the past 24 hours. The winds have increased, but very little loose material (snow) is available for transport. The snowpack is mature with no obvious deep instabilities currently. Existing buried crusts continue to serve as a framework for the snowpack, providing some stability and structure. Isolated slopes below 2300 metres are still at threshold, particularly in the southwest areas on slopes with south aspects. The recent rain and warm temperatures continue to erode the snowpack and lift the snowline. Numerous hazards exist associated with spring. Crevasse is becoming exposed and open, and glide cracks have appeared around the ridgelines and roll-overs that are under tension. Waterfall holes exist in drainages and gullies. This trap is unforgiving, with severe consequences, and can catch people off guard. Very difficult to see if uphill of a hazard and descending at speed. Travel with absolute awareness of your surroundings, especially in drainages, is imperative. Not enough snow below 2000 metres for an avalanche to fail and run.