| Posted: 8:59 a.m., Sunday, May 25, 2003 |
We are through using the U.S. 5 scale danger rating system for the remainder of the season. The 5 scale (low thru extreme) system will be reinstated next season when needed. Until then, this GENERAL ADVISORY will stand for the rest of the season. We have quite a bit of snow coverage left, which has settled out, been skier compacted, and is going thru the late season melt freeze process. However, the numerous large snowfields may make for a good sliding surface for late season snow. A June or early July snow storm is not an unheard of occurance on Mt. Washington. So be prepared for the possibility for new snow instability if this occurs. Also watch for sustained warm weather and/or heavy rain potentially blowing out running water from beneath the snow. This has caused wet slush avalanches in Tuckerman and Huntington Ravines in the past. YOU WILL NEED TO PUT YOUR AVALANCHE SKILLS TO WORK FOR THESE LATE SEASON HAZARDS. BE PREPARED TO DO YOUR OWN SNOW STABILITY ASSESSMENTS IF ENTERING AVALANCHE TERRAIN ON MT. WASHINGTON.
THE TUCKERMAN RAVINE TRAIL THRU THE RAVINE, FROM LUNCH ROCKS TO THE JCT. WITH THE ALPINE GARDEN TRAIL, IS CLOSED TO ALL USE BECAUSE OF CREVASSES AND UNDERMINED SNOW. THIS ALSO APPLIES TO THE LIP. This occurs every year due to the very steep traverses over the open waterfall and large crevasses that open on the right (north) side of the Bowl. This trail section will be closed until the tread has melted out. Be prepared to use an alternate route.
BE AWARE OF FALLING ICE! Each year over 1000 tons of ice forms on the Headwall and in other areas in Tuckerman Ravine as well as the gullies of Huntington Ravine. In the spring it all comes down, often in pieces larger than cars. Many folks have been injured and even killed by falling ice. Pay attention to where you are, do not linger under ice. Have a plan in mind about what you will do if ice comes down. Station yourself near a large rock to duck behind in the event of ice fall.
CREVASSES AND UNDERMINED SNOW appear as the snow pack slowly creeps downhill and separates from the ledges on the Headwall. These openings vary from a few inches to 80 feet (24m) deep, and includes the many waterfalls on the Headwall. Hiking up what you plan on skiing is recommended so you can see what you're in for on the way down. This includes analyzing your run out which will become more limited as the season progresses. Skiers and climbers need to pay attention to what is below at all times and constantly evaluate the potential outcome of a fall or slide. This is especially true when the visibility is poor. Many people have been seriously injured, and some killed, falling into these crevasses. As the water runs and melts out the snow from beneath, undermining will continue to occur collapsing the snow above. Be extremely cautious in these areas.
The John Sherburne Ski trail has been closed for the season. The Lion Head summer trail is open. Some snowfield traverses still exist just below treeline.
AS ALWAYS, THIS ADVISORY IS ONE MORE TOOL TO HELP YOU MAKE YOUR OWN DECISIONS IN AVALANCHE AND ALPINE TERRAIN. It should be used along with your own hazard assessments skills. Be honest with yourself and know your limitations.
We thank all the groups that helped us make it through the season successfully. We couldn't do the job without the many volunteer hours carrying hurt people down the mountain and the financial support that helps us upgrade our rescue capabilities. We sincerely appreciate all your help. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU NEXT SEASON! THANKS FOR ANOTHER FUN WINTER. MARIANNE, JUSTIN, BRIAN, AND CHRIS.
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