Tuckerman and Huntington Ravines have MODERATE avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible on steep snow covered open slopes and gullies. Unstable slabs are possible. Use caution in steeper terrain.

The summit received 3.5 cm (1.38 in) of rain in the past 24 hours. Rain has tapered off as of early this morning with only an occassional light shower still expected. Temperatures have begun to fall and are expected to reach -7 C (20 F) by late afternoon. As this occurs snow showers are expected to bring 5-10 cm (2-4 in) to the mountains by late tonight. This transition from rain to snow will create a wide variety of snow stability issues. This morning we are quickly moving from the High rating of yesterday, due to heavy rain fall, to Moderate this morning as freezing temperatures solidify the upper snowpack. As this occurs stability should increase for a period before snow accumilations increase. This will change the concern from a rain on snow problem to new snow slab considerations. As snow moves in winds are expected to move to the West and increase. These are ideal loading winds for bringing new slab into the ravines. As winds increase expect dense slabs to form over ligher loose snow from the initial onset of snow. As this occurs expect the instability to increase with the possibility of the avalanche danger to be on the upper end of the Moderate rating approaching Considerable. This is particularly true if the weather forecast is correct and we receive snow totals on the higher end of expectations.

In addition to avalanche concerns climbers should expect very wet ice conditions, running water, and ice dams. As temperatures drop today and tomorrow anticipate the ice dam dragons to be raising their heads once again. Ice dams can vary in size and impact. They can range from a slight annoyance by getting your gloves wet to a significant problem flushing you down slope with a couple hundred gallons of water. Be cautious and use appropriate protection.

The John Sherburne ski trail has once again been hit hard by rain and warm weather. Expect icy and hard conditions with dropping temperatures later today, some blowouts, abrupt water bars, open holes, and running water.

THE LION HEAD WINTER ROUTE IS OPEN. This is a steep and challenging route. Ice axe, crampons, and the skill to use them well is necessary for safe travel. Remember, it is always easier to go up than come down.

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 reading mountain weather's effect on the snowpack, and avalanche rescue.