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.

The maximum temperature in the last 24 hours at the summit has been -23C (-9F). Such temperatures do little for stabilization of the snowpack. Yesterday's field observations found lots of very hard windslab that boots barely penetrated. The bridging strength of this thick layer is far superior to softer windslab that exists in more sheltered or stronger lee areas. This bridging strength spreads your weight over a large area thus reducing the stress you place on suspect layers below. Where these slabs get thinner or softer is where we currently have the most concern. With very cold temperatures dominating the area over the past 48 hours we have had dramatic temperature gradients near the snow surface. Yesterday we found an 11 degree C difference in the upper 10cm! Today we were down to a 7.6 degree C, but this still classifies as excellent hosting conditions for massive vapor movement. Therefore we are keeping a close eye on the development of near surface faceting. It is possible that in areas of thin or soft slab we are becoming more unstable as opposed to consolidating. SE aspects such as the Lip and Sluice received some of the heaviest loading and possibly formed some softer slabs under the dense layer. A muted fracture from where a slab likely failed on this interface is still visible on the climber's right side of the Lip. The southern section of the Bowl got hammered by the wind more than other areas due to its exposed location concerning NW winds. The same can be said for many areas in Huntington Ravine. IN BOTH RAVINES AREAS POSTED AT LOW DO HAVE ISOLATED POCKETS OF INSTABILITY. These pockets are likely lurking in the areas most sheltered from the wind. Know how to recognize and avoid them! Even a small pocket can ruin a good day of climbing when triggered.

Be prepared for FULL ARCTIC CONDITIONS in the mountains today. Temperatures are expected to peak at -24 to -29C (-10 to -20F). With winds at 105 kph (65 mph) it will feel like a trip to the Poles. Dress warm and know when to say when.

The John Sherburne ski trail has some soft areas but expect hard pack snow to prevail particularly on the lower half. Anticipate water ice, rocks, and thin cover in many locations. 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.