Tag: Mt. Washington

Exploring Mt. Washington: Weather Risks and Safety Tips

January 15, 2025

Today’s Weather On Mt. Washington Summit

  • Wind Speed 51 mph
  • Temperature -5.6 F
  • Wind Chill Temperature -39F

The Presidential Range is a mountain range located in the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Named for President George Washington, Mt. Washington is the tallest peak. It is known for its’ record-breaking wind speed.

Standing at an elevation of 6,289 ft. , Mt. Washington is considered one of the most treacherous mountains in the United States. The mountain is notorious for unpredictable and inclement weather.

If you’re planning to venture up Mt. Washington, be very prepared for what you’ll encounter on your journey.

The Importance of Wind Chill

Wind chill is how cold the outdoor temperature feels when the wind speed is factored in. At the base of the mountain the temperature may be 40 degrees F. As you increase elevation the wind speed increases and the temperature will feel colder.

Fatalities on Mt. Washington

There have been 176 known fatalities and missing persons within the Presidential Range, many of them were over 50 years old.

Links To Summit Weather and Wind Chill Calculator

Mt. Washington Observatory Current Summit Conditions www.mtwashington.org

Wind Chill Calculator www.weather.gov

Hiking Accident Prevention: Hikers Who Perished On Mt. Washington

July 3, 2021
S T O R I E S  P A S T  A N D  P R E S E N T 

New Hampshire Magazine Provides A List Of 161 Known Deaths From 1855 to 2019

New Hampshire Magazine May 19, 2019 – “Mt. Washington’s Fatalities” By New Hampshire Magazine Staff

There are two additional casualties that ocurred after this article was published, bringing the total to 163. Sandra Lee 63, died on June 13, 2019 of hypothermia, and Joseph M. Gormley 60, on September 12, 2020 of unknown causes.

Mt. Washington Is Known For Fierce Winds, Extreme Cold, And Year-Round Snowfall. From April 1934 To 1996 It Held The World Record For the Highest Recorded Wind Speed At 232 mph.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Trip Planning Resources For Hikers And Backpackers

Irene Pastore, is a Certified Personal Trainer, fitness blogger, health educator, and speaker. She has 23 years experience teaching exercise in New York City.  To read her complete bio, visit the About Page.  

Hiking Accident Prevention: New Hampshire Rise In Backcountry Search and Rescue Report October 2020

February 24, 2021

 

Growing Ranks of Unprepared Hikers Need Rescue

Outdoors.org 10/26/20 Officials: Mountain Search And Rescue Went Up As The Unprepared Went Out, By Miles Howard

Pictured left: Mt. Washington – The highest peak in New Hampshire. Elevation 6,288 Feet

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Trip Planning Resources For Hikers And Backpackers

Irene Pastore, is a Certified Personal Trainer, fitness blogger, health educator, and speaker. She has 23 years experience teaching exercise in New York City.  To read her complete bio, visit the About Page.