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.

Temperatures are fighting hard to rise for the day. At midnight the summit climbed above 0 F (-18 C) for the first time in 48 hours. Increasing temperatures will only help to consolidate the snowpack which has had little chance to strengthen under these arctic conditions. Many avalanche geeks refer to this as the "Betty Crocker Principle" and think about it like baking a cake--the lower the temperature, the longer it takes to produce what you're looking for. Right now we're hoping that someone will turn up our oven so that suspect areas like the Lip and Sluice will have their snowpack strengthened. These areas were heavily loaded from the past week's constant snow showers and moderate to high winds. Their smooth and pillowed appearance sets them apart from the more wind-battered areas in the ravines.

With very cold temperatures dominating the area over the past 48 hours we have had dramatic temperature gradients near the snow surface. With changes of more than 10C in the top 10cm we're looking for the development of near surface facets. Under these conditions we can see massive vapor movement leading to a weakening of the snowpack. It is possible that in cold and shaded areas with thin or soft slab they are becoming more unstable as opposed to consolidating.

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.