Avalanche forecast

Presidential Range

Mount Washington Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
No rating
Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

It may be possible to find small drifts of snow at upper elevations today. Loose-wet sluffs of slushy snow at mid elevations are also possible. Neither will be large if triggered, though both can trip you up in steep terrain. Solid, consolidated snow surfaces will be more predictable. Watch out for icy long sliding fall conditions as wet snow refreezes over the next 24 hours. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Rain turning to snow at upper elevations may drift into small slabs in east facing terrain which are likely to be more widespread than isolated given the moderate wind speeds. The timing of precipitation and slowly dropping temperatures may work to limit any accumulating snow, potentially limiting this avalanche problem.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    In locations which previously held soft snow at mid elections, you may find a slushy, loose layer of snow which can move beneath your skis and possibly carry you. Be careful in steep terrain above obstacles where falls will have greater consequences.

Avalanche Discussion

Wet and dry snow avalanche concerns will be limited by small snow accumulations and temperatures close to the freezing point. The potential for new snow creating a wind slab avalanche problem is greatest in the morning while temperatures remain warm. As temperatures slowly cool throughout the day, the probability of precipitation decreases. 

The likelihood of wind slabs developing increases overnight and tomorrow from snow showers and temperatures below freezing at mid and upper elevations.  

Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to submit observations of snow and avalanche conditions, both inside and outside our avalanche forecast area. Please keep them coming.

The Lion Head Summer Trail is closed for the season due to avalanche risk. The Lion Head Winter Route is open.

Regions covered