One person has been killed in an an avalanche in the Ragged Range near Methven.

Two people were buried – but only one person was conscious when rescuers pulled them out.

The pair were on a guided tour group when the avalanche occurred around 1pm.

Emergency services were rushed to the scene, including Rescue Services from Mt Hutt ski field.

Other members of the tour party were flown to Glenfalloch Station heli-ski base.

It appears an avalanche warning was issued shortly before the avalanche occured.

This story was posted by the Herald at 12:49pm: 

Avalanche warnings have been issued for the Southern Alps.

After weeks of cold, southerly conditions a change to warm westerlies has triggered dangerous avalanche conditions , the Mountain Safety Council said.

Large avalanches have tumbled down valleys in the Mackenzie Country, Mt Cook village, and at South Island ski areas in the past two days, the council said.

Its avalanche forecasters were concerned about conditions and warned of a high avalanche danger.

Canterbury conditions were listed as posing a “considerable” risk.

The council has warned skiers, snowboarders, climbers and trampers to avoid backcountry travel until further notice.

 

Newstalk ZB, NZHerald.co.nz, NZPA

 

 

 

 

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