| Posted: 8:09 a.m., Wednesday, January 29, 2003 |
Tuckerman Ravine has LOW and MODERATE avalanche danger. The Little Headwall and Lower Snowfields have Low avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are very unlikely and human triggered avalanches are unlikely except in isolated pockets. Normal caution is advised. All other areas in Tuckerman Ravine have Moderate avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. Unstable slabs are possible on steep terrain. Use caution in steeper terrain.
Huntington Ravine has LOW avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are very unlikely and human triggered avalanches are unlikely except in isolated pockets on steep open slopes and gullies. Normal caution is advised.
The winds on Monday held steady in the 50-75 mph (80-120 kph) range, blowing mostly from the northwest. While these winds scoured out Huntington Ravine quite nicely, they moved snow from Monday's snow storm down into Tuckerman Ravine. Due to the light density snow moving so easily, stability will vary based on exposure to the wind. Strong lee areas are the most suspect for instablility as the high winds did not scour them as much. These areas include the Lip, climber's right in the Chute and under the Sluice ice. Realize that areas posted at Moderate have just come down from Considerable. Use your avalanche skills to assess the stability of the snow and to choose a good route if you are traveling in avalanche terrain.
THE WINTER LION HEAD ROUTE IS OPEN. The route leaves from the Huntington Fire Road and has orange signs starting on the Tuckerman Ravine trail at roughly the 1.8 mile mark. It is a steep and challenging route. Crampons, an ice axe, and the ability to use them with skill are required for safe travel. Avalanche skills are always required to travel safely in the mountains. Be prepared to do your own stability assessments.
The John Sherburne ski trail is once again improving. Be aware that there are still a few problem waterbars, rocks, and hidden branches from last weeks big wind just under the surface.
AS ALWAYS, THIS ADVISORY IS ONE MORE TOOL TO HELP YOU MAKE YOUR OWN DECISIONS IN AVALANCHE TERRAIN. It should be used along with your own snow stability assessments, knowledge of safe travel techniques, skill in mountain weather's effect on the snowpack, and avalanche rescue.
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