Mountain WeatherMITOC Winter School 2001

Dave Andersen

Why Weather?

Mt. Washington, 1/10/2001, 12:48pm:0 degrees F; 54MPH wind, wind chill: -54

Weather Changes

• January 1: Temperature 3 degrees;• Snow, freezing fog, wind chill –50• Visibility: 100 feet

Weather Safety

• Check the forecast– Forecasts are not always right– New England weather changes rapidly!

• Stay alert to weather changes– Clouds and winds provide big hints

Mountains get bad weather

Cirrus Clouds

High altitude clouds; good weather, possible rain in 12-24 hours for some types

Cumulus Clouds

• Nice weather, but keep an eye out

Nimbostratus Clouds

• Lower (2000m) clouds

• Rain or snow coming soon

Cumulonimbus

Clouds with vertical growth (“Anvils”)(May not see the anvil when close)Heavy rain, snow, hail, lightning!

Blue Skies

• Good weather has its downsides too: The Sun (it’s a mass of incandescent gas…)

• Sunburn can be serious– Light and U/V reflected by snow and ice– Sunburned retinas and mouths are not fun

• Sunscreen, long-sleeved clothing, and sunglasses will make you happier

Weather Summary

• Check forecasts, check the skies often– Neither is a perfect predictor, so be prepared.

• We’ve given a basic intro; there are two good weather websites linked from our web page.

• Take-home lesson: STAY ALERT. Weather changes rapidly.