Avalanche forecast

Presidential Range

Mount Washington Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

You are unlikely to trigger an avalanche on firm, wind-affected steep slopes today. Look out for wind-sheltered soft snow at middle elevations on east-facing slopes as they could be more sensitive to human triggers. These will be easy to identify, smooth, and bright white; traveling on the firm snow surface avoids this hazard.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1–1.5

    Remain cautious of lingering wind slabs in east-facing terrain at middle elevations today. These will be found in wind-sheltered terrain features, like under rock buttresses, and terrain roll-overs. These areas have an increased risk for human triggered avalanches as the snow may be softer and more sensitive. Use hand shears and shovel shears to evaluate areas of soft snow and gain a better understanding of the snowpack

    In addition to the remaining wind slabs, look out for thin wind slabs in eastern terrain built from around 2 inches of new snow over the last few days on west and north winds. The chance for a little new snow again this afternoon on moderate winds may add to this avalanche problem. The same consideration and evaluation applies to these. 

    Identifying today’s avalanche problem is easy as the snow will appear smooth in contrast with the firm and textured snow surface. Traveling on firm surfaces will reduce your likelihood of encountering this avalanche problem.

Avalanche Discussion

Low avalanche danger does not mean no avalanche danger. All of your standard safety protocols still apply. Continue to carry rescue gear, travel one at a time through avalanche terrain, and watch for signs of instability. Remember that small avalanches can have bad outcomes in steep consequential terrain. Before committing to skiing a slope, think about where an avalanche could carry you. Could you get pushed over cliffs or through trees? Slopes with these terrain traps are inherently more dangerous than open slopes with a clean runout.

Remain cautious of lingering instabilities in the snowpack due to continued cold weather, specifically the larger slabs formed in eastern terrain from the 5-7 inches of snow on January 16th. Overall, several days of wind have created a varied snow surface which demands continual evaluation for stability as you travel. If you find softer snow where your boot penetrates the surface, take the time to evaluate. 

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