Photo: Getty ImagesWarnings about dangerous avalanches have been issued after 50 centimetres of new snow fell in 24 hours over some alpine ranges. An Avalanche Advisory is in place for high alpine areas at Arthur's Pass, Aoraki/Mt Cook and Wanaka. The advisory said most avalanches occurred within 24 hours of new snow, and more snow was expected in some regions. It urged people to evaluate snow and terrain carefully and be prepared to change plans if heading into alpine areas today. The avalanche hazard was on the rise for the next 24 hours in Fiordland as a front moved in from the north, the advisory said.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 20, 2020 03:22 UTC