Huntington Ravine has Considerable avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches are probable. Be increasingly cautious in steeper terrain.

Today's key factor will be blowing snow, and that will depend a lot on wind speeds. In the past 48 hours the Summit has received 7.6" (19.3cm) of new snow and here at Hermit Lake we've recorded 10.5" (27cm). This has fallen with very light winds, especially by Mt. Washington standards. The result is that most of this snow is sitting above treeline waiting for winds to pick it up and move it into the ravines. Currently, a decent amount of loading is taking place in Hillman's and Dodge's Drop, and this is taking place with the current winds of 25-30mph (40-64kph) from the NW. Today's forecast is for NW 25-40mph winds, so we will potentially see loading throughout the day, particularly on E, SE, S aspects. If the winds stay on the lower end of their forecast, loading will be kept somewhat at bay, but if they move up toward the 40mph mark we should see significant loading. It's worth noting that ratings yesterday were High, so coming down from there we will be at the upper end of Considerable today. Natural avalanche activity was observed in the Lip and Headwall and Yale Gully, and these fracture lines have been refilling. Areas with similar aspects that have not already slid, such as the top of Hillman's and Left Gully in Tuckerman, will hold some of the greatest concerns today. In any area posted at Considerable, there is a possibility of natural avalanches. This is where your ability to assess how much blowing snow is taking place and where it's being deposited will be critical. Also, human triggered avalanches are probable under the Considerable definition. Existing slabs are going to be touchy today and the added stress of a human traveler will exacerbate this problem. These slabs haven't had much opportunity to bond with the underlying crust which is acting as a bed surface. The blue skies may be tempting you to venture into avalanche terrain today; if you do so go with a good deal of caution and an acute awareness of how much snow is blowing around.

Looking ahead to the weekend, more snow is expected Friday night into Saturday, bringing perhaps a few inches or more. Winds will also be rising up from their relatively mellow speeds. In addition to elevated avalanche danger for the weekend in our forecast areas, other concerns are growing around the mountain. Although it is not a forecasted area, the Lion Head Winter Route is not without avalanche hazard. The growth of snowfields in close proximity to the trail is noteworthy. Take care to stay on the route. Remember that we have seen avalanche activity this season in many uncommon areas.

If you plan on being in steep terrain, make sure you have crampons, an ice axe and the ability to self arrest. The icy surface that is around the mountain provides the potential for long sliding falls, even with a blanket of new snow. This includes the Lion Head Winter Route. The Sherburne Ski Trail is open with new snow and great backcountry conditions.