Huntington Ravine has LOW avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are very unlikely and human triggered avalanches are unlikely except in isolated pockets. Normal caution is advised. These isolated pockets do exist so try to stay on old surface whenever possible.

Wind loading has subsided in Tuckerman Ravine, however, instabilities are still lingering. Yesterday's field tests found slabs that had elastic energy and had no problem propagating fractures. Our stability tests were getting failure within a lighter density layer above a rain crust. The bed surface for recent avalanche activity has been the rain crust from Saturday, January 3. While time has helped stabilize the snow a bit, the very cold temperatures have inhibited this process more than usual. What this all boils down to is that there are areas in Tuckerman Ravine that we feel could produce avalanches with the introduction of a trigger. Areas of most concern are The Lip and under the ice in the Headwall.

A weak Clipper will be moving into our area this evening and is expected to deposit about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of new snow. It should also give us a brief reprieve from the bitter Arctic air. And yes, it will be brief. On its coat-tails is another blast of Arctic air that is rumored to rival the one we have just experienced with the possibility of even colder temperatures. If you plan on heading into the mountains next week, be sure to check the latest weather forecasts and RECONSIDER!

The John Sherburne ski trail has variable conditions. Expect growing areas of water ice, some blowouts, abrupt water bars and open holes. The new snow has been blown clean off the trail in places and in others it is hiding the ice. Be prepared for sudden changes in the trail.

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.