As is often the case, our forecast discussion this morning centered on the key descriptive words in the avalanche danger ratings. Though natural activity should be unlikely for most of today we feel that human triggered avalanches are quite probable in most forecast areas. New layers of windslab have recently been formed as a product of 14" (36cm) of new snow combined with strong winds out of the N through W. Numerous natural avalanches occurred as a result of this combination and yesterday's visibility allowed us to investigate the remaining evidence, much of obscured by ongoing wind-loading. Curiously enough, Huntington showed little in the way of scouring despite its propensity to do so in strong wind events. Brutally cold temperatures have allowed the instabilities to persist while dissuading many of the two-legged volunteer triggers from testing the slopes for you. Although today's weather forecast calls for little in the way of incoming precipitation, upslope energy is currently being wrung out in the form of snowshowers in the ravines. Until winds die down from their current rate of 80+mph (129kph) we'll continue to see additional loading and the possibility of natural avalanches. Odds are this decrease should happen by early afternoon but if you see blowing snow in the air take the liberty to be your own forecaster and recognize the clues provided.

If the arctic temps have left you wishing for warmer weather you're in luck. That's the good news. The bad news is that your warmer weather might also be a tad on the wet side. Additional good news includes this weekend's weather forecast with Sunday promising to be a beauty. We'll leave the next system and the bad case of the Mondays that it may bring to this evening's weekend update on tuckerman.org.

The John Sherburne Ski Trail is open with plenty of new snow. Expect drifting and variable conditions. THE LION HEAD WINTER ROUTE IS OPEN. This is a steep and challenging route for mountaineers. Crampons, an ice axe and the ability to properly use this equipment are recommended for safe travel on this route.