If we could have a series of storm waves like we've just had over the past four days every couple weeks I'd be very happy. Over the past four days Hermit Lake has received just over 4 feet (124cm) of new snow of which 8.5" (22cm) fell over the past 24 hours. The last 4" (10cm) was a bit lighter in density than most of the storm at about 8% water content adding some fluff to the surface. Currently it may appear to be icing on a rich vanilla cake, but before eating it up think about about a few important points. This storm came in on an easterly wind which has cross loaded a number of our forecast areas that usually get a more direct deposition of snow. Therefore you may find instabilities in all sorts of unique places that you usually find to be a reasonably safe option. We have just come down from a High rating due to a reduction in our concern for natural activity from "likely" to "possible". We are finding soft slab instabilities that warrant the Considerable rating because of human triggered avalanches being probable on many slopes. Continue to watch for instabilities on treed slopes down low and small snowfields in seemingly innocuous slopes such as near the Little Headwall. Winds will move towards the north and increase to 30mph (48kph) by late in the afternoon which will begin to move the loose unconsolidated snow, that goes all the way to the summit, into the start zones of southerly facing slopes and gullies. This shouldn't be an intense loading event, but may build a very soft slab high in these slopes. This will be the beginning of a raging wind that will be gusting to 100mph by Monday morning so you may see the "High" ratings again tomorrow. In short it continues to be a heads up day due to the "Blue Bird" factor. Don't let the sunny sky make your decisions about avalanche terrain travel, let an objective look at the snow make them. Be safe and watch out for other mountain travelers above and below you.

The Lion Head Winter Route is open. If you're lucky someone else will have broken the trail today. The John Sherburne Ski Trail is a happy place with lots of new snow. Watch out for lots of low hanging branches near the bottom due to the snow and ice accumulations.