Winter to summer…

2007-05-24 05:15:03.000 – Jim Salge,  Observer

Hazy summer-like view…

Changes in the weather patterns on Mount Washington can come every bit as rapidly during the summer months as in the winter…and the variations can be every bit as striking. Two days ago the summit was a winter wonderland, with plunging temperatures, wind and ice. But, that was short lived, as yesterday dawned amid clearing skies and warming temperatures, and haze free vistas for shift change.

The crew, including our second new intern of the summer, assembled at the base in lightweight gear and was able to ascend in the truck, without chains. The road, for the first time in my travels this year, was completely ice free, however, still narrow and rutted in places. For status on the Auto Road’s plans for the weekend, you can check in with them here!

At the summit, light winds, sunny skies, and haze free views accompanied temperatures rising into the 40s, a bit above average for this time of year. Changes continue today, as now just 48 hours removed from ice, hazy, hot and humid weather is about to take over the weather pattern. The haze is already present, limiting visibility to a mere 20 miles from the peak. Dense fog also fills the river valleys this morning, and both these summer sights are evident in the picture at right.

Temperatures will likely climb to 60 degrees today, and all eyes will be towards the record books, with a high mark of 63 for the day…

Jim Salge,  Observer