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.

It seems that we are back to the nickel and dime routine for the foreseeable future as upslope precipitation is back in the driver's seat. The summit picked up 1.7" (4.3cm) of 3% snow in the past 24 hours. This came on very light to moderate wind velocities from the WSW to the NNW. Loading continues as evidenced by a hazy ridgeline this morning under partly cloudy skies. Expect loading to continue through the day as winds pick up into the afternoon with the possibility of returning snow showers. Anticipate a solid "Moderate" avalanche danger to be on the upper end of the rating in some locations later today. Expect "Low" areas to have developing isolated pockets in both Tuckerman and Huntington Ravine. Heavy scouring in gullies like Left Gully, and the northern gullies of Huntington, will make isolated pockets stand out for the most part. In all areas expect any new slab to be quite "touchy" due to the very light 3% density of last night's new snow. Even small pockets should be given a degree of respect. Don't let the blue skies sucker you into skiing bliss without watching for new loading around you.

In addition to increasing winds at 30-60mph (50-100kph) from the NW the mercury is expected to drop to 0°F (-18°C) this afternoon. Overnight temperatures will fall into the negative numbers and winds will be in the 75mph (120kph) range. Weather systems will slip to the south of us over the next week bringing us light precipitation on and off over the next 6 days. Upslope energy and cold temperatures will keep us on our toes as light density snow loads into lee areas. It is a period that may appear as dull and mundane for avalanche problems, but these are the exact conditions that can catch you by surprise. This surprise factor is what can make this week's weather hazardous. Secondary stability concerns are the hard slabs lingering from last week's bigger snow events. These harder slabs would be more difficult for a human to trigger but there is some concern about an avalanche from the more recent snow stepping down into the older hard slab resulting in a larger avalanche. The Lip area has the most potential for this to happen. Keep this in the front of your mind if you opt to travel in that area. Stay alert and check back each morning for an update.

Look for our Weekend Update on tuckerman.org later tonight.

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. The Little Headwall has filled in with snow, however, it is quite a thrash to get into and out of the skiable terrain. The John Sherburne Ski Trail is open and has good coverage. Expect variable conditions including scoured sections and large drifts.