Avalanche Advisory for Tuckerman and Huntington Ravines
Posted: 8:23 a.m., Friday, February 9, 2007

Tuckerman Ravine has Considerable avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches are probable. Unstable slabs are probable in steeper terrain. Be increasingly cautious in steeper terrain. The Lower Snowfields and Little Headwall are not posted due to a lack of snow in these areas.

Huntington Ravine has Moderate and Considerable avalanche danger. South, Damnation and North Gullies have Moderate avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. Use caution in steeper terrain. All other forecast areas have Considerable avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are possible and human triggered avalanches are probable. Unstable slabs are probable in steeper terrain. Be increasingly cautious in steeper terrain.

This morning we're celebrating a slightly higher than average snowfall for the same weather we've been experiencing throughout the recent days. The Summit picked up 2"(5cm) of 10% snow while lower down the mountain we received slightly less. Strong winds from the W & WNW have continued transporting any available snow toward the Ravines and the trails below are showing some significant drifting. Similar to recent days, the weather forecast is a little unsure of exactly what will happen, and there are some pretty big differences between localized forecasts. The weak disturbance that is creating the clouds and snowfall this morning is projected to move on out later today as winds pick up and the snow showers come to a halt. One inch(2.5cm) is expected throughout the day though some sources are saying that a few localized areas have the chance to pick up a bit more. Many areas are at a Considerable rating today based on today's expected snow being loaded on top the slabs that have formed in the last 24 hours. The NWS is calling for winds out of the WNW at 40-60mph(64-97kph) which would likely create more loading and less scouring than the higher winds that the Observatory is forecasting. Right now the winds are quite strong up top with a recent reading over 80mph(129kph) out of the NW. If heading out there today be ready to assess the situation in an ongoing fashion. If the winds stay close to what they're currently blowing then some areas, especially in Huntington, will likely be scoured to the old surface while other more sheltered areas will receive quite a bit of loading. Areas such as the Lip and Headwall in Tucks were at Considerable yesterday and the potential for natural activity exists this morning while other areas are currently closer to the Moderate rating and will be climbing into their current rating later in the day.

THE LION HEAD WINTER ROUTE IS OPEN. This is a steep and challenging route. Crampons, an ice axe, and the ability to properly use this equipment are necessary for safe travel on this route.

Please Remember:
•   It is impossible to accurately predict natural events, such as avalanches, in every instance. This Advisory is one tool to help you make your own decisions in avalanche terrain. It should be used along with safe travel techniques, snow stability assessments, an understanding of weather's effect on the snowpack, and proficiency in avalanche rescue.
 
•   You should obtain the latest weather forecast before heading into the mountains. Anticipate a changing avalanche danger when actual weather differs from the National Weather Service forecast.
 
•   For more information, contact the U.S. Forest Service Snow Rangers, the HMC Caretaker at the Harvard Cabin, and the AMC at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center or Hermit Lake Shelters. This advisory will expire at midnight.

Justin Preisendorfer, 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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