Happy July!

2013-07-01 17:47:54.000 – Matthew Cann,  Summit Intern

View looking west from the parapet

As we transition into the new month of July, we remain stuck in this seemingly unbreakable weather pattern. The offshore flow continues to bring moisture into the Northeast, and, when paired with the hot summer air, provides the perfect conditions for heavy rain and thunderstorms to develop. As a result the region has recently been dominated by flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings. With the month of July ahead of us it is increasingly important to keep an eye out for severe weather. In the Northeast, July is one of the months with the most frequent severe and hazardous weather caused by thunderstorms and tornadoes. After witnessing a couple of tornado warnings in Massachusetts this afternoon, it is highly recommended that when planning a hike or day at the beach, you take a moment to check for active weather alerts in your area. Active weather alerts are available at the following website. Enjoy the summer, but remember to do so safely.

July is not all bad news. On Mount Washington, July is the time when the summit truly transitions from a barren and somewhat desolate environment to a verdant mountaintop swarmed with bevies of visitors from all regions of the globe. Where hikers, tourists and locals, young and old come to enjoy the beauty of Mount Washington. While on average July is the hottest month in the year, the peak of Mount Washington only averages a high temperature of about 54 degrees Fahrenheit in July. So a great way to beat the heat this summer is to summit the mountain, but remember to always stay hydrated!

On my third day working on the summit I was able to give a tour of the parapet to a few visitors from Scotland. As we stood at the highest point in the Northeast and gazed off into the distance, there was a brief moment when nobody spoke a word. A moment when their awe and astonishment resonated with my own, in a tune that sang along with the winds. At that moment we felt small, yet big at the same time – on top of the world. I strongly urge everyone who isn’t a member to become one, and ask for a tour of the parapet. Experience the feeling of being on top of the world, of having your breath taken away, of losing the ability to conjure up any words to sum up your emotions. Instead, stare off into the distance and immerse yourself in the speechless beauty of our amazing planet, in a way unique to Mount Washington.

Matthew Cann,  Summit Intern