Applying your research to ‘in the field’ observations will give you a keen sense of whether the forecast picture matches your own on mountain reality. Make sure you recognise the leeward aspects, the windward aspects and the associated avalanche and ice hazards respectively. If these are consistent with your research, your hardwork has paid off. If not, you’re starting from scratch and will be assessing hazards based purely off your own observations. It may be time to reasses and change your plan
If you see warning signs of instability weigh these against your research or preconceptions with regards to your route and decisions.
