9:03 a.m., Saturday, February 19, 2000
                                      
   The avalanche danger for Tuckerman and Huntington Ravines is HIGH.
   Natural and human triggered avalanches are likely. Travel in avalanche
   terrain is not recommended.
   
   The Mount Washington Observatory reports 5.4 inches (14 cm.) of new
   snow overnight. There are about 7 inches (18 cm.) here at Hermit Lake.
   Amazingly, the storm brought very little wind. The current winds are
   South at 6 mph. (9 kmh.) The visibility is good, and we have a great
   view into Tuckerman Ravine. This is very unusual during a storm. What
   this means is that there is 6 inches (16 cm.) of snow covering all the
   terrain to the west of the ravines. When the winds increase and shift
   around to the NW, all that powder snow will blow into this area. The
   hurricane force winds so common to Mount Washington will scour every
   flake of snow from Bretton Woods and maybe even Twin Mountain, and
   deposit it in Tuckerman Ravine. Its an ideal setup for a large
   avalanche cycle. There is a weak layer of cold, powder snow which will
   be underneath the wind slab when the winds increase.
   
   And the winds will increase. The low pressure system which brought the
   precipitation is already beginning to pull out to the north and east.
   On its heels is another low pressure system which will keep the snow
   falling for the remainder of the day. High pressure will build into
   New England tonight. The winds will increase, and shift around to the
   W-NW. Snow showers are forecast to continue through Tuesday in the
   mountains.
   
   Travelers planning an adventure above treeline should make sure you
   get the latest weather forecast. When the winds pick up, the
   combination of blowing snow, high winds and increased avalanche danger
   in steep, snow covered terrain could make your trip very hazardous.
   This is especially true for those planning Presidential traverses or
   other multi-day trips.
   
   Due to the threat of avalanches on the Lion Head Summer Trail, the
   LION HEAD WINTER ROUTE is recommended. Climbers using this route
   should be aware that the trail is steep and challenging. Good winter
   mountaineering technique is essential, as well as crampons and an ice
   axe. Please note that the winter route passes thru avalanche terrain.
   Climbers on the route must be sure to not stray from the trail.
   
   Snow conditions on the Sherburne ski trail are excellent, and there is
   good coverage.
   
   PLEASE REMEMBER:
   
   o Any new precipitation will increase the avalanche danger.
   
   o Obtain latest weather forecast before starting out.
   
   o For more information, contact the U.S. Forest Service Snow Rangers:
   AMC at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center or Hermit Lake Shelters.