Don’t get sprung by the weather says MSC and MetService

Don’t get sprung by the weather says MSC and MetService

With Labour Weekend and the Great Walks season is fast approaching, the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) and MetService are encouraging people to plan accordingly before heading outdoors. Chief Executive Mike Daisley is keen to make sure everyone makes it home this year.

“We know from our recent research that there is a noticeable spike in accidents and incidents around this time of year.”

“What’s important to remember is that the weather is very changeable at this time of year and it’s easy to get caught out.”

Mr Daisley stresses that preparation is the key to having an enjoyable and safe trip regardless of length or intensity.

“Spring, and in particular Labour Weekend, is such an exciting time for families and outdoors people around NZ. The days are getting longer and over Labour Weekend you typically have a chunk of time off, so it’s not surprising that people head outdoors to enjoy it. My family and I certainly will be, as will our staff.”

“We’re simply reminding people that there are consequences in an outdoors environment that need to be properly considered and planned for.”

“Checking the weather, and being prepared for it if things do change is a critical part of trip planning at this time of year.”

MetService Meteorologist Lisa Murray urges people to check up-to-date weather forecasts before heading outdoors over Labour Weekend.

“Spring typically brings unsettled weather patterns that can catch out even the most experienced people. It’s best described as having the potential for four seasons in a day.”

Some locations around the country will still have snow on the ground despite the longer days and warming trend of temperatures. MetService is keen to remind people that Spring in New Zealand, particularly in alpine and semi-alpine environments, can be unforgiving.

“We know how quickly weather conditions can change, and how treacherous they can become from one moment to the next. Even places like the Tongariro Alpine crossing can get snow flurries at this time of year,” said Murray.

“The weather across the country this weekend swings back and forth from wet to dry - typical for spring. Starting wet on Friday as a low crosses the North Island, the weekend becomes dry for most (apart from east of North Island) before a rain band approaches the country on Monday.

“We advise people to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings at www.metservice.com before heading outdoors, as having the latest information is key to good planning. Plan for the worst weather forecast over your trip period, and take the right gear to handle it,” added Murray.

The Mountain Safety Council have noted a high number of ‘unexpected nights out’ this year that had the potential for very serious consequences. The MSC are strongly suggesting that taking a few simple items – such as a jacket, head torch, emergency blanket and a bit of spare food – can make all the difference if you find yourself in an ‘unexpected night out’ said, Daisley

“All it takes is a minor injury, losing your way on the track or something taking longer than anticipated. If it then gets dark all of a sudden you’re in an unexpected night out scenario. Having supplies to deal with that is critical, especially if you have kids.”

Mr Daisley also encouraged people to leave their trip intentions with a trusted contact, in case something did go wrong.

“That way, if someone knows where you’re going and when to expect you back they can raise the alarm and get assistance to you quickly. If nobody knows you’re out there nobody will come looking for you right away.”

For more information on preparing for your trip head to the MSC website www.mountainsafety.org.nz and make sure you check the weather via MetService www.metservice.com

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