Avalanche Advisory for Tuckerman and Huntington Ravines
Posted: 9:14 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2004

Tuckerman Ravine has MODERATE and CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger. The Little Headwall and the Lower Snowfields have Moderate avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. Unstable slabs are possible in steep terrain. Use caution in steep terrain. All other areas in Tuckerman Ravine have Considerable avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are POSSIBLE and human triggered avalanches are PROBABLE. Unstable slabs are probable on steep terrain. Be increasingly cautious in steep terrain.

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:
•   ****Any new precipitation may increase the avalanche danger, this includes wind transported snow. ****Obtain the latest weather forecast before starting out. ****For more information, contact any of the following: U.S. Forest Service Snow Rangers, AMC at the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, AMC at the Hermit Lake Shelters, HMC at the Harvard Cabin. ****This avalanche advisory will expire at midnight.****

Brian Johnston, Snow Ranger
USDA Forest Service
White Mountain National Forest
(603) 466-2713 TTY (603) 466-2856
 
This is the Official Tuckerman Ravine website.  Occasionally the remoteness of Tuckerman Ravine, weather, or communication problems prevent the website from being updated immediately.  Check the date, and if it is not the most recent, you can also call the National Forest Service's 24 hour avalanche hotline at (603) 466-2713 (ext. 4)

Avalanche Advisory Archives.

United States Avalanche Danger Descriptions.

Échelle Canadienne de risque d’avalanche.

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