Avalanche forecast

Presidential Range

Mount Washington Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering avalanches large enough to bury people is possible on slopes where the wind has drifted recent snow into smooth drifts. While the chance of triggering a large avalanche is most likely on southeast and east aspects, avalanches are also possible in steep, wind-sheltered terrain on other aspects. Avoid triggering an avalanche by choosing wind scoured slopes or hard snow surfaces.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2.5

    Strong northwest winds yesterday were active in transporting the recent 7 to 8 inches of snow onto leeward aspects in east-facing ravines. Observers and forecasters were hampered by low visibility, however several red flags were observed in safe sheltered locations including recent avalanches, propagating cracks, and a collapsing upside down snowpack. 

    Today we expect to find new wind slabs over 3 feet thick on east and southeast aspects at middle elevations. New wind slabs are also likely on adjacent aspects due to cross loading. These wind slabs lie above a variable surface including a hard melt-freeze crust, pooled graupel, and also existing moderately reactive slabs. 

    With improved visibility today, the new smooth wind slabs should be easy to spot and likely to be more sensitive to trigger an avalanche when compared to wind sculpted slabs which are likely to be more stubborn. Wind scoured snow surfaces with little or no soft snow will be the terrain choice to avoid triggering an avalanche. 

    Remember that these wind slabs are new and cold temperatures have limited settlement and bonding. Despite the strong winds yesterday and overnight, a structure may remain which supports widespread propagation in more connected terrain. The potential exists for an avalanche to break to the side or above a person, creating a larger than expected avalanche. 

    If the snow you are traveling through becomes deeper and denser you've found a wind slab. Cracks shooting out from in front of your skis are clear indications that the slab you found is unstable. Signs of recent avalanches are a sign that slopes may be unstable.

Avalanche Discussion

Both forecasters and observers in the terrain yesterday had almost no visibility into the larger avalanche paths. Today’s avalanche hazard rating is based on the observations found in safe sheltered terrain, and pattern recognition using prior experience observing wind loading in avalanche paths. With good visibility today, and safer options for travel, what occurred yesterday will be revealed to all.  

The Lion Head Summer Trail is CLOSED due to increased avalanche hazard. The Lion Head Winter Route is OPEN and the most direct route to the Mount Washington Summit from Pinkham Notch. 

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.

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