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

The summit picked up 5 cm (2 in) of 5% snow in the past 24 hours. This came in with SW through NW winds averaging between 65-80 kph (40-50 mph) with maximum gusts in the low 130's kph (80's mph) range. These winds have brought new light density snow out of every nook and cranny above treeline into lee areas in the Ravines. The increasing winds overnight have created denser slabs over lighter layers. Expect an unstable inverted upper snowpack. With the light 5% densities expect the most substantial loading to occur in strong lee areas. Meanwhile, slopes exposed to winds only 50 meters away could be completely scoured. So expect quite variable surface conditions. With cold temperatures expected through the next 72 hours snow instabilities should remain due to the slow sintering process.

The beginning of an Arctic weekend has begun. The summit dropped to a current temperature of -29 C (-20 F) this morning from -16 C (3 F) as of 4pm yesterday. These current temperatures should be the high for the day as they are expected to continue falling through the afternoon. With temperatures in the -32 to -35 C (-25 to -30 F) range and increasing and gusty winds expect full Arctic conditions. These conditions have no mercy to even a basic mistake like a dropped hat or a broken bootlace. Anticipate the weather demons to descend on such an open opportunity to quickly make life very grim. Unless you are training for a January ascent of Denali I would consider staying home and pulling out the Gameboy. Some snow is forecasted for Monday and Tuesday and we will keep you up to date as it approaches.

The John Sherburne ski trail has variable conditions. Expect areas of water ice 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.