Presidential Range

Snow surfaces are firm, and avalanche conditions are generally stable. However, be cautious of small pockets of softer snow in steep terrain - even a small avalanche could lead to a consequential fall. An ice axe, crampons, and the skills to use them will be necessary for safe travel on steep slopes.

After sustained extreme winds, most snow surfaces at middle and upper elevations are firm, hard, and unreactive. The effect of the wind on the snowpack is easy to identify by looking for textured, sculpted surfaces.

The Mt. Washington summit received half an inch of snow overnight, and while there is a chance for a trace to 2” of additional snow today, the likelihood of this happening is low. If snow showers are more productive than expected, watch out for the development of thin, small pockets of wind slab, primarily in steep easterly aspects. These slabs would likely be isolated and relatively small, but could still pose a risk in steep terrain. The risk is that a small pocket of new snow, or softer old snow, could release, potentially contributing to a dangerous slide-for-life on the slick, hard snow surfaces.

Due to the hard snow surfaces, you should actively work to reduce your exposure to a long sliding fall by moving carefully through steep terrain. Use crampons and ice axes to prevent a fall. Stick to terrain and conditions that match your skill level to maintain a margin of safety.