Recent wind-loading and avalanche activity are keeping our danger rating at MODERATE today. While the majority of the existing wind slab avalanche problem is firm and stubborn, the potential size of some of these slabs makes the consequences of triggering something severe. The potential for a person to trigger one of these large, firm wind slabs remains possible, but just barely. Areas of softer wind slab in more sheltered spots may also present a problem. It’s important to remember that you only need to be wrong once in your assessment of a slope. Even stubborn, firm wind slabs can fail if the right trigger point is found. Do the right thing and have everyone in your party bring beacons, probes and shovels and travel one at a time through high consequence terrain.
Danger Rating by Zone
Early winter in the high country
/in News /by Frank CarusWinter came early this year with almost 110” of snow on the summit before December rolled around. Skiers and riders enjoyed the deep soft snow, while warmer temperatures at lower elevations didn’t keep ice climbers happy. Typically, climbers can find an early season fix on ice in Tuckerman and Huntington but all the new snow made for particularly unenjoyable postholing to reach climbing objectives.
The Evolution of Mount Washington Avalanche Center Forecasts
/in News /by fongemieAs those who attended ESAW and recent MWAC outreach events have heard, our forecast zones are changing this year. The primary drivers of this change are changing use patterns, a desire to be consist with the use of North American avalanche danger scale (and other forecast center messaging), and a desire to provide information to folks venturing into other aspects and elevations around the area. Beginning this year, we will provide an avalanche forecast for most of the Northern Presidential Range.