Daily Discussion

Generally, there is Low hazard traveling in the mountains at this time. That said, there are two primary concerns.

Firstly are cornices. Today there has been a report of Tate East Ridge cornice failing. This is in addition to the Blue Lake cornice that failed at the beginning of the week.

Secondly are wet avalanches. With continued warm temperatures, the snowpack is trending towards isothermal conditions. Isothermal means all one temperature. When the entire snowpack is 0 degrees Celsius, top to bottom, there ceases to be any bonds between the snow crystals and as a result, wet avalanches (loose and/or slab) are possible.

To manage these two hazards: 1. Avoid cornices. 2. Avoid avalanche terrain if you find unsupportive, punchy snow conditions (isothermal).

Confidence: Moderate.

We need your eyes too. If you’ve been touring in the Alpine National Park we’d love to know what you have seen. Every little bit helps.

NSW conditions report team: