Huntington Ravine has CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches are probable on steep terrain. Be increasingly cautious in steep terrain.

We finally received some snow. The storm moved in around 8pm last evening. As snow began to fall the winds were out of the SSW at 55kph (35 mph) and then shifted around to the SE with a peak gust at 125kph (71 mph). In the early morning hours the winds moved around to the W averaging 32kph (20 mph) as the snow continued to fall. Around 5am the snow diminshed and the winds picked up to 95-125 kph (60-70 mph) from the WNW. Winds are expected to continue at 80-130kph (50 - 80 mph) from the W throughout the day. The Summit received 14.7cm of 13.5% density snow. Over at the Harvard cabin we received 16cm of 10.3% density snow and here at Hermit Lake we received 21cm of 10% density snow. What does all this mean? You can expect to find new snow loading and cross-loading on most aspects throughout the ravines. As the west winds increase through the day and continue to move the snow into the ravines we expect to find "upside down slabs", that is a higher density slab on top of a lower density slab. With wind loading occurring throughout the day we expect to see natural avalanche activity, especially in lee areas of the W and WNW winds.

The John Sherburne ski trail has new snow over water ice, rocks and hard pack snow. Though the surface looks good be prepared for these hidden hazards and 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.