Currently we have a beautiful blue sky morning, but as a Low moves in from the Great Lakes we should see increasing clouds later this afternoon. We are expecting to see light snow showers move into the area late tonight and continue over the next few days as this Low moves up the coast. Accumulations are unclear at this time so keep your fingers crossed. Another Low pressure system moving across the Great Lakes will bring us another chance of snow showers Sunday into Monday. Check with us over the next few days to see how this new snow may be affecting the snowpack here in the ravines.

The only stability concerns we currently have are isolated pockets of slabs that were formed early Monday morning. These are scattered about in both Ravines and they are sitting on a rough but icy crust. Use caution in these areas and stay on the old surface when possible. Besides the isolated pockets of new snow you will generally find ideal crampon conditions on the exposed rain crust. Individuals skilled in crampon use will find travel to be quick and pleasurable. Keep in mind that a slip and fall today could be your biggest concern as the rain crust makes for nice crampon travel but is also very slippery. A self-arrest must be executed immediately to prevent you from racing down the slope in a position not of your choosing. CRAMPONS AND AN ICE AXE ARE MANDATORY EQUIPMENT FOR SAFE TRAVEL IN ANY ANGLED TERRAIN. Be prepared for isolated post-hole conditions in some flat and vegetated areas, like the bottom of the Escape Hatch.

Facet growth conditions have been ideal though they are up against an impressive rain crust. Cold temperatures above the crust and warm wet snow below the crust have made some enormous temperature gradients. This morning impressive crystal growth was observed. Though it is fun to watch,this facet growth is being bridged by the strength of the crust. As of right now is not an instability factor but we will continue to watch it closely.

THE LION HEAD WINTER ROUTE IS OPEN. Mountaineering skills and equipment are required for safe travel on this route.

The Sherburne Ski Trail is open and has coverage though it's very thin in places. Expect variable surface conditions with a hard unforgiving icy surface being the prominent feature.

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. To improve these skills take an avalanche course. We have all the avalanche courses offered in and around the Mt. Washington Valley this winter on our website, tuckerman.org.