The summit received 5 cm (1.9 in) of 4.7 % density snow in the past 24 hours while we picked up 8 cm (3.15 in) down here at Hermit Lake. Light snow began falling during the early afternoon with winds from the W around 80 kph (50 mph). These winds persisted until early this morning when they began decreasing, and as of an hour ago winds plumetted to the single numbers. This caused light loading through the evening hours before subsiding after midnight. There is currently a blanket of very light snow waiting for the winds to pick up again and load lee areas. This is forecasted to occur through the day, but is expected to be between 40-55 kph (25-35 mph). Although this shouldn't move a significant amount of snow keep an eye on changing weather exceeding the wind speed forecast. Snow showers are also forecasted even though the skies are currently a beautiful deep blue. What this all translates to on the ground is a variety of conditions within the Moderate rating. Huntington currently is on the lower end of Moderate while areas under the Headwall ice and the Lip in Tuckerman are on the upper end of the rating approaching Considerable. When winds begin moving this 4.7 % snow around expect rapid loading to occur. This will increase the avalanche danger and may potentially push some areas to Considerable especially strong lee aspects with a E and SE aspect in Tuckerman. With the current weather expectations this shouldn't occur until the overnight into tomorrow.

Another arctic blast is coming our way beginning tomorrow before becoming entrenched Wednesday into the weekend. Anticipated high mountain temperatures below -32 C (-25 degrees F). 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 a blanket of snow hiding areas of water ice, some blowouts, abrupt water bars and open holes. 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.