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.

It is another cold and windy day up here on Mt. Washington. The summit temperature at 7:00 am was -38c (-36f) with winds out of the NW at 117 kph (73 mph). Winds are expected to gust over 160 kph (100 mph) today and wind chills could exceed -100 F. To put it simply, it is just brutal outside. If for some reason you do venture into avalanche terrain, expect unstable snow in strong lee areas of NW winds. Most noteably are the areas posted at Moderate today. As of yesterday, these areas had picked up new snow from wind loading after having already gone through one avalanche cycle. As winds increased yesterday, more snow was transported into these strong lee areas creating potentially unstable wind slabs.

The end of the really cold weather is in sight! As the low pressure system responsible for our high winds moves out it will draw warmer air from the south into our region. Weekend valley temperatures are expected to reach -7c (20f) by Sunday. This should feel like beach weather to most folks in New England.

The John Sherburne ski trail has variable conditions. Expect areas of water ice, new drifts, and abrupt water bars. 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.