Huntington Ravine currently has MODERATE avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. Use caution in steeper terrain.

Snow began yesterday morning on the summit and has continued through this morning with accumulations around 4-5 cm(1.5-2 in) of light density snow. Winds started out of the SE and wrapped around clockwise until reaching their present location out of the WNW. Throughout yesterday they averaged 32 kph (20 mph)until the switch into the SW and W was made around 10 PM when they steadily began to increase to their present speed of 95 kph (60mph). Such conditions were optimal for direct loading of N, NE and E aspects and cross-loading on others. All of this snow has fallen on a variable crust layer left by Saturday's rain. Field observations revealed that this crust varied in texture, thus creating some rough interfaces where new slab may have bonded well and others where it was smooth and not conducive to good bonding. You can expect to find areas on both ends of the Moderate spectrum in both ravines. Some areas especially up high may be scoured down to old surface providing a safer route on which to travel. Winds are projected to continue to be strong and eventually move to the NW with light snow continuing most of the day. This will deposit snow onto the SE aspects which are currently on the lower end of the Moderate rating. Temperatures will remain cold which means these instabilities may linger for the next day or two. Check back with us for updates on future conditions.

The John Sherburne ski trail has variable conditions. Expect areas of ice, some blowouts, abrupt water bars, open holes, and running water. Recent warm temperatures and rain have exaggerated these problems. With a couple of inches of new snow, many of these problems will be hidden but not cured.

THE LION HEAD WINTER ROUTE IS OPEN. This is a steep and challenging route. Ice axe, crampons, and the skill to use them well are 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.