PINKHAM NOTCH, N.H. – Danger warnings went out Friday to visitors planning to hike into Mount Washington’s spring skiing mecca – Tuckerman’s Ravine.

According to U.S. Forest Service snow rangers, conditions are rapidly changing, elevating the level of danger.

Last week’s warm weather has opened new crevasses daily in the Bowl. Ice falls are increasing and rushing melt-water below the surface is undermining snowpacks.

“We had a return to winter conditions a week ago after 14 inches of new snow, but it’s totally different today and visitors need to have realistic expectations,” ranger Chris Joosen said Friday in a report.

During a normal March and April, Mount Washington averages 92 inches of snowfall; this winter, it was only 38 inches.

“Last week’s storm lengthened our season a little, but the normal springtime hazards are back and they’re rearing their ugly heads,” Joosen said.

Despite the dangers, large crowds are still arriving to participate in or watch what has become an annual spring tradition.

One of the busiest days so far was last Saturday, April 25, when more than 2,500 people visited the ravine, according to the report.

Mount Washington’s volunteer ski patrol and rangers had to provide medical care to six injured skiers and snowboarders, some of whom required technical rescue, Joosen said.

Ravine visitors even triggered three separate avalanches, but, luckily, no one was buried.

“The secret to having a fun, safe time on Mt. Washington is being here at the right time with the right equipment and having flexible plans,” Joosen said. “You need to recognize the various hazards, ask questions of those who work here, and make smart, well-informed decisions.”

Sunny days may mean better skiing, but they often mean elevated danger of ice fall as well, especially in locations like the well-known Lunch Rocks.

The ever-popular place from which to sit and watch the action is actually very dangerous, because thousands of pounds of ice cling to the cliffs above Lunch Rocks.

Every spring, that ice eventually comes crashing down, Joosen said.

“Check out our Web site before you come and make sure you plan for the expected, not the desired,” he added.

For the most up-to-date conditions and before visiting the ravine, people are urged to check www.tuckerman.org or call the forest service at 603-466-2713.