Presidential Range

Avalanche conditions are generally stable, but 2-4 inches of mixed precipitation may create unstable surface conditions today. This new accumulation may increase your risk for traveling on steep slopes. Consider that even a small avalanche can have serious consequences in steep and icy terrain.

Today we don’t have an avalanche problem listed, but that does not mean that you won’t find small avalanches. 

The incoming storm will bring mixed precipitation with continued mild temperatures and  light winds (by Mount Washington standards). These light winds are unlikely to effectively transport snow and build wind slabs today. With low wind speeds, snow has the potential to be more sensitive, couple that with poor bonding due to the icy refrozen surface observed yesterday, there is an effective bed surface for avalanche activity. While today’s new snow likely lacks the size to bury you, consider the consequences of a fall in steep terrain today as a slick surface will make self arrest difficult. Traveling with ice axes, crampons, and the skills to use them will be beneficial today.

This mixed, dense precipitation will likely fall wet. It has the potential to freeze in place and add to a firm and frozen surface if temperatures trend low. If temperatures stay closer to freezing, this snow may be wet, mushy, and heavy. If you find the latter, think about the potential for wet loose activity. Dense moving snow under your ski or boot has the potential to cause a fall that could be consequential in steep terrain.

OBSERVATIONS: Please consider submitting an observation of what you are seeing in your travels. Submitting an observation hones your skills, informs other users, and improves our forecasts.