| Posted: 9:14 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2004 |
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.
The summit has received 21 cm (8.4") of new snow since 8 pm on Tuesday night. West and WNW winds have been loading this snow into the ravines since they shifted from the SE at 3 am on Wednesday morning. With continual loading occuring, we are still concerned about natural avalanche activity in all areas rated Considerable. Tuckerman Ravine has just come down from High and we feel that the Lip, Sluice and areas on the Headwall are on the upper end of Considerable. Due to poor visibility, recent snowfall and wind loading, it would be wise to think twice before heading into avalanche terrain today.
More snow is on the way for the weekend. A storm system should arrive to our area by Friday night and linger through Saturday. Today's weather forecast suggested a 100% chance of precipitation on Saturday. It is unclear how much snow we can expect as current weather models are conflicting. One is forecasting 1.25 cm (.5") of liquid equivalent while another is forecasting as much as 5 cm (2") of liquid equivalent. Either way, it is good news if you like snow (we certainly do!). If you are planning a trip into the mountains this weekend, be prepared for an elevated avalanche danger. We will keep you posted on the storm's progress.
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.
| Please Remember: | ||
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Avalanche Advisory Archives.
United States Avalanche Danger Descriptions.
Échelle Canadienne de risque d’avalanche.
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