Yesterday the arctic cold front moved into our region which sent the mercury plummeting. Temperatures are defying the models as we are already at the projected low for the day on summit at -14F (-26C). As we move through the day temperatures will continue to drop reaching -20F (-29C) or more by dark. With cold temperatures and upslope energy we are seeing very low density snow. Here at Hermit Lake we recorded 2.5" (6.3cm) of 3.2% snow while the summit picked up half that amount with slightly higher densities. Although there is relatively little moisture available for additional new snow it takes very little to squeeze an inch or two out of the sky at these temperatures. Expect today's increasing wind velocities to approach 70mph (112kph) from the WNW and NW. This will have little trouble transporting last night's snow and any new low density snow falling today. This will predominately affect slopes that have an easterly to southerly facing aspect while there will be crossing loading of others. Light fluffy snow is easily moved by the moderate winds we are currently seeing so new instabilities should be expected even this morning. How much new loading we will see today will obviously be directly related to new snowfall totals, but anticipate any slabs to be sensitive to triggers whether they are natural or of the human variety. With poor visibility due to drifting snow and it being the holiday weekend, we expect a busy mountain again today. This means lots of triggers running around looking for any weaknesses in the snowpack. Stay very vigilant about who might be above or below you relative to the issue of triggering avalanches. It is critical to be constantly aware of this as people can move into these areas quickly unbeknownst to you.

In addition to standard avalanche safety equipment(the beacon, probe and shovel) you must have high quality arctic clothing to travel safely above treeline today. Extreme weather can cause lots of problems quickly. This is especially true for your appendages and face where we see most frostbite issues. Good mountaineering boots, mittens, and face covering items including goggles are paramount.

We send our deepest condolences and thoughts to the family and friends of a fellow mountaineer who was killed in an avalanche in Huntington Ravine on Friday. The objective dangers in the winter mountains are many, which are contrasted by their extraordinary beauty, and the rejuvenation and peacefulness they can bring us. These factors together create the challenges that give us the intense fulfillment as human beings and keep us coming back time and time again. We must be ever on the lookout for all the hazards we face while pursuing our mountain passions. The mountains will be here another day. We will post an accident summary on tuckerman.org later today or tomorrow.

Although the new snow is trying to cover it up, the hard old surface is poking through in places. Until it has vanished you will need crampons, an ice axe and solid self arrest skills to travel safely in steep terrain. This includes travel on the Lion Head Winter Route. The Sherburne Ski Trail is open with good coverage from top to bottom.