Avalanche forecast

Presidential Range

Mount Washington Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
No rating
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Highlights

Small avalanches on steep east and south facing terrain is the primary concern today. New snow from minor upslope precipitation events has created thin slabs of wind drifted snow in the middle and upper elevations. Extreme winds have redistributed the new snow to isolated locations atop a firm icy layer that can act as a sliding surface for both humans and avalanches alike.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Around 1 inch of new snow accumulated yesterday, and 3.2 inches over the past 3 days, on the upper and middle slopes of the Presidential mountains. The new snow was pushed around by extreme ridgetop winds that reached 114mph. The northwest direction of the wind has cast the new snow to the lower extent of steep east and south facing terrain in the middle elevations. Thin and stubborn slabs of drifted snow have developed that could be 6 to 8 inches deep, in wind sheltered areas. Triggering even a small slab above the stout icy crust that exists, could result in a fall that would be difficult to control.

Avalanche Discussion

A 1 inch smear of new snow each day, for the past 3 days, is keeping the surface conditions in sheltered areas soft and skiable. Slabs of wind drifted snow can be found as thick as 8 inches in wind protected areas of the middle elevations. Extreme wind gusts around 114mph have scoured the upper snowfields and the top half of many of the ski runs in Tuckerman Ravine. Stubborn to unreactive slabs of wind deposited snow are irregularly distributed on slopes facing east and south. An easy way of distinguishing new slabs from old snow, is by the bright white contrast of the recent snow versus the gray drab of the older surface.

This afternoon’s clear skies and temperatures just above freezing in the middle elevations means there is a chance for south aspects to experience a brief warm-up of the surface snow. If you find yourself on a steep south-facing slope during the heat of the day you may experience some minor loose wet avalanche activity. This problem should remain isolated and its duration should be short-lived.

Tomorrow morning we will have a warm and wet air mass enter our region bringing precipitation in multiple forms. Early morning snow in the upper and middle elevations will diminish to sleet and freezing rain by the early afternoon. Southerly winds will transport any new snow to northern aspects, while wet precipitation will help to rapidly settle any accumulation. The upper elevations will likely see freezing rain and sleet with the lower elevations enduring mostly rain.

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