Trampers, Campers And Alpine Climbers Advised To Take Extreme Care During Severe Weather Period

Following the severe weather warning issued by MetService today, New Zealand Mountain Safety Council strongly recommends that trampers, campers and other bush and alpine users take extreme care before going into the outdoors during this period.

The Mountain Safety Council’s main concerns are rising rivers, landslides, falling trees and poor visibility. In particular, people attempting to cross swollen streams and rivers.

Forecast gale-force winds and heavy rain over most of the South and North Islands today will make outdoor conditions treacherous. Trampers and alpine climbers especially are advised that very stormy conditions are forecast for today. The southerly change may also bring colder weather to mountain areas.

Those who are planning to go on small bush walks are also encouraged to be well prepared for their trip, even if this is just off the road end.
Campers are encouraged to check directly above their tent sites for unstable trees and branches, to peg tents securely and to make sure their tent site is well above where flooded streams and rivers could rise.

RIVER CROSSING WARNING

Mountain Safety Council Chief Executive Officer, Darryl Carpenter, recommends that trampers and other bush users such as mountain bikers and day walkers take extreme care before heading outdoors during this period, particularly when attempting to cross swollen streams and rivers following forecast heavy rain.

“In the affected areas, significant rainfall is likely to make streams and rivers rise quickly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible following this period of heavy rain.

“You should never cross a flooded or fast-flowing river or stream. IF IN DOUBT, STAY OUT. Trampers and day walkers have lost their lives after being swept away when attempting to cross swollen rivers.

“The best plan is to sit out poor weather conditions, camp an extra night or two and wait until the weather improves. This means taking extra food, a communications device such as mountain radio or personal locator beacon and other equipment appropriate to the terrain and conditions.

“Even experienced trampers can strike problems in the outdoors. We urge trampers take extreme care and check the weather conditions and river heights before heading into the outdoors,” he said.

FALLING TREES

Falling trees can also make travel dangerous for walkers. Even a short walk could take longer than anticipated if fallen trees make tracks are difficult to pass. People who may already be wet and cold could be out longer than anticipated.

THE OUTDOOR SAFTY CODE

“We want everyone to enjoy their experience in the outdoors this summer. Keeping safe is simple, inexpensive and can save your life”.

“When heading into the outdoors, know The Outdoor Safety Code. Follow its 5 simple rules to help you keep safe,” he said.

The Outdoor Safety Code
1. Plan your trip. Seek local knowledge, plan the route you will take and the amount of time you can reasonably expect it to take.
2. Tell someone. Tell someone your plans and leave a date for when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned.
3. Be aware of the weather. New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the forecast and expect weather changes.
4. Know your limits. Challenge yourself within your physical limits and experience.
5. Take sufficient supplies. Make sure you have enough food, equipment and emergency rations for the worst case scenario. Take an appropriate means of communication such as a personal locator beacon or mountain radio.
For more information about outdoor safety, visit www.mountainsafety.org.nz or www.outdoorsafetycode.co.nz

© Scoop Media