Avalanche forecast

Presidential Range

Mount Washington Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

A winter storm will increase avalanche danger today and overnight. Triggering an avalanche 1-2 feet thick will become increasingly possible as snow piles up. Watch for drifting snow deeper than your boot top. Use extra caution in steep terrain, where falls are dangerous on a hard, slick snowpack with exposed rocks, ice, and trees below.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    This morning, isolated wind slabs 6-14 inches thick can be found at middle and upper elevations, primarily on south easterly aspects. These can be avoided by choosing firm snow surfaces. 

    The oncoming winter storm will bring 2-3 inches of new snow by dark, and maybe another 4-5 inches overnight. Strong southeast winds in the 40-50 mph range accompany this snowfall, shifting to the south overnight. Expect to see new wind slabs building later in the day, growing in size and sensitivity. 

    To identify the new slabs once the snow starts to pile up, look for signs that the wind has been at work. Deeper drifts, pillows, and a stiffening snow surface are all indicators that the wind has been transporting snow. If the snow you are moving through is becoming deeper and denser, you're likely moving through a wind drifted slab of snow. Cracks shooting out from your skis or feet are a clear sign of an unstable slab. 

Avalanche Discussion

At lower elevations, avalanche danger today will be much slower to increase due to warmer temperatures and less wind. Increased avalanche danger tomorrow at low elevations in the forecast area should be expected from continued snow overnight and colder temperatures.

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. 

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