Huntington Ravine has MODERATE avalanche danger today. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. Unstable slabs are possible in steep terrain. Use caution in steeper terrain.

Well it's shaping up to be another nice day albeit a bit cold. Yesterday Brian and I were able to get out and about a little in Tuckerman. We feel after field observations, another day of consolidation, and solar gain on southerly aspects that the rating can move down to 'Moderate' from Thursday's 'Considerable'. However once again we feel the Ravine is using the full gamut of the 'Moderate' rating spectrum. There are locales such as high in Bowl under the Headwall Ice and the Lip that are a solid to upper end 'Moderate'. While other areas such in Right Gully are on the lower end of the rating. Continue to use caution in this commonly used gully however. Down in the narrows of Right gully you will find more stable slabs than near the top. Light winds have brought snow into a few of these upper strong lee areas. So if you use this route to get above treeline be aware of those that might be using the same route as a decent. Keep your eyes open to those around you, stay alert, and save that limp and dreamy state for the hot tub at the end of the day. Huntington continues to harbor the same problems as yesterday. You may find instabilities on the approach lower than usual in "The Fan" as well as high in the southern gullies of the Escape Hatch, South, and O'Dells. Instabilities are not unique to these areas alone, but are excellent examples of some of the Ravine's current hazards.

We are still concerned about the next time the wind picks up causing new loading into the lee areas of both Tuckerman and Huntington Ravines. We will likely get above treeline today to see just how much unconsolidated snow is available for transport. Currently, it looks like winds may become a problem on Sunday, but we will update you in tomorrow's advisory.

THE LION HEAD WINTER ROUTE IS OPEN. Mountaineering skills and equipment are required on this route. Crampons and an ice axe are a must for safe travel on Mount Washington. With all the recent snow we have seen snowshoes are recommended for all areas except trails known to be packed. The John Sherburne Ski Trail has good coverage.

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.