Staying informed about avalanche risks this winter season
As the 2021-2022 backcountry avalanche forecasting season kicks off in all 12 New Zealand Avalanche Advisory (NZAA) regions, the Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is urging users to prioritise safety when exploring the backcountry.
Backcountry users, which include skiers, climbers, hunters, or trampers, are encouraged to regularly check the NZAA website for updates on avalanche advisories, written by professional forecasters with expertise on local conditions. Users can also view past public observations from the same area, providing valuable insights into current conditions.
For those seeking to enhance their skills, a list of practical courses taught by professionals can be found online. The MSC also offers a free online course for a refresher on the basics.
Travelling safely in avalanche terrain requires three essential components: skills, equipment, and forecast. In avalanche-prone areas, where the snowpack is not controlled, the danger for backcountry users is increased.
Snow cover is thin in many regions, making it crucial for users to be mindful of rocks and creeks to avoid damaging gear or causing injury. This is particularly important for those embarking on their first winter adventures, as many will be using ski fields as a common access point to the surrounding backcountry.
In recent news, a small slab avalanche occurred in the Tongariro region on June 5, as reported on avalanche.net.nz. Sharing public observations on the NZAA website is a way to share information on conditions or avalanches with the community and be eligible for winter prizes.
The organization responsible for avalanche warnings in New Zealand, Avalanche Advisory, has been providing support to backcountry participants in avalanche-prone areas across the country since 1999. From 1999 to 2018, there were 742 reported avalanche incidents in New Zealand's outdoors, including 27 fatalities.
A polar blast this week has resulted in significant snowfall across much of New Zealand, boosting hopes for many ski field operators. Many ski fields are planning to open soon, offering a gateway to the backcountry for winter enthusiasts.
The latest avalanche advisory can be found at www.avalanche.net.nz. The MSC urges all winter backcountry users to stay updated on snowpack conditions and avalanche danger by checking their regional avalanche advisory before venturing out. Stay safe and enjoy the winter season!
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