Huntington Ravine has LOW and MODERATE avalanche danger. The Escape Hatch has 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 Huntington 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.

Over the past 24 hours the summit has received 1.6" (4 cm) of snow and 2.2" (5.5 cm) in the past 28 hours. While the snow was falling between 0800 and 1700, winds were out of the west ranging from 22 to 36 mph (35 to 58 kph) and then shifted slightly to the WNW and steadily increased. As of 0700 the winds were 60 mph (96 kph) out of the WNW. What this all means is that the new snow has been moving and is continuing to move around and is being deposited into the Ravines. Though 2.2" doesn't seem like a lot, it adds up fast in the lee aspects once the wind moves it. Keep your eyes open for signs of instability. In addition to the new snow we are still concerned about lingering instabilities from snow that has fallen in the last week. Cold teperatures have prevented things from settling out. Between this past Sunday and Wednesday we received 18" (45 cm) of snow with winds ranging from the S to NW. During these few days both ravines picked up a tremendous amount of snow. Many areas are on the upper end of the spectrum for their rating. Areas posted at Moderate are pushing Considerable and some areas, such as the Bowl in Tuckerman, that are posted at Considerable are pushing High. If you are heading into avalanche terrain today use all of your safe travel and route finding skills.

As discussed in many of our previous advisories, ice dams have been an on going issue in the Ravines, particularly in Huntington Ravine. They are still an issue. Yesterday Pinnacle Gully had water pouring down the first pitch. Near the top of the third pitch one unfortunate climber punched through a snowy ledge and found himself up to his knees in water. Not an ideal situation to be in when the outside temperatures are below zero and you are a long way from your car. Be very aware of the condition of the ice you are climbing.

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 improving with this weeks new snow. However, due to high winds expect variable conditions in the form of whales, drifts, and scouring. Some rocks and waterbars are still hidden under the new snow.

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.

United States Avalanche Danger Descriptions.