March Newsletter: Eclipse, Big Wind, and Spring's Wild Weather

Looking up as lenticular clouds start to form at sunset on the leeward side of Mount Washington on Feb. 25.

Dear Member,

Welcome to meteorological spring! This season is known for some of the wildest weather on Mount Washington. And true to form, the day before spring’s arrival, our observers measured a 147-mph wind gust.

Like you, I look forward to this season all year long, following forecasts, checking current conditions, and watching weather cameras as each new storm arrives.

In addition to exciting mountain weather, spring 2024 will feature unique opportunities to connect with our community, both in-person and online. I look forward to making the most of these special months with you as we celebrate the Great American Total Solar Eclipse and Big Wind Day 90th Anniversary. We would love to have you join us for one or all of the events listed here.

Total Solar Eclipse
You can learn about all we have planned on our website at 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. Highlights include:

April 4: Virtual Science in the Mountains, Forecasting the 2024 Total Eclipse.
April 6: Exhibit of Weather Observer Ryan Knapp’s astrophotography at the Omni Mount Washington Resort’s Conservatory.
April 7: Presentation of eclipse science with University of Maine Professor Neil Comins at the Omni Mount Washington Grand Ballroom.
April 8: Family-friendly viewing party at Coleman State Park in Stewartstown, NH.

Big Wind Day, 90th Anniversary

Learn more on our website about our Big Wind Day 90th Anniversary celebrations. Highlights include:

April 11: Open House featuring archival materials and our curator, Dr. Peter Crane, in the Observatory’s Gladys Brooks Memorial Library.
April 12: Family friendly celebration with educational programs, weather balloon launch, kites, live music, food, drinks, and a ceremony with the families of our first weather team, at Tuckerman Brewing Company.

Thank you for your incredible support of the Observatory, providing our team with important momentum to continue studying weather and climate on Mount Washington. I hope to see you this spring as we celebrate our community and its rich history.

Sincerely,

Charlie Buterbaugh

Director of External Affairs

FEBRUARY WEATHER HIGHLIGHTS

Highest Temperature

37 °F

Lowest Temperature

-15 °F

Fastest Wind Speed

147 MPH

Precipitation

3.23 IN

Complete monthly weather data can be viewed here. Those traveling to the White Mountains should expect winter conditions. Check the Higher Summits Forecast.

Observers Measure Hurricane-Force Winds as February Ends

It was an eventful end to meteorological winter. Weather observers Charlie Peachey and Alexis George braced against hurricane-force winds on Thursday, recording a 147-mph wind gust. Peachey spoke with The Boston Globe’s Chris Gloninger about the conditions.

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New Impact Story: Data Integrity and the Importance of Metadata

Jay Broccolo, Director of Weather Operations, shares insights into the Observatory’s long-term dataset and the importance of metadata when looking at climatology in complex terrain.

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Science in the Mountains: Storm Chasing… It’s Rocket Science!

Tornadoes are one of the most destructive natural forces on Earth, yet there is still much to learn about this dynamic, hard-to-predict phenomenon. Join renowned storm chaser Reed Timmer, Ph.D., on Tues., March 12 at 7:00 p.m. to learn about the Team Dominator project and much more.

Reserve Your Spot

From the Obs Archive: The Mount Washington Club

Peter Crane delves into the history of the Summit House’s transformation by Henry Teague, a larger-than-life entrepreneur whose story is intertwined with that of Mount Washington.

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Blue Hill Observatory to host Solar Eclipse Expert

One Tues., March 12 at 6:30 p.m., Blue Hill Observatory will host Dr. Tamara Ledley for a presentation about the upcoming solar eclipse. Ledley has travelled the world to experience and photograph eclipses. She will present her vast knowledge and guidance on how to safely view and photograph this breathtaking event.

Reserve Your Spot

24th Annual Seek the Peak

Mount Washington Observatory’s largest annual fundraiser will return for its 24th year on Sat., July 20. Seek the Peak will feature a hike-a-thon and Après Hike Expo, inviting hikers of all ability levels to raise vital funds for the Observatory and celebrate adventure in the White Mountains. Register as an individual or part of a team!

Sign Up Today

Announcing the Official Bagel of Mount Washington Observatory!

We are thrilled to announce Big Dave’s Bagels and Deli as the Official Bagel of Mount Washington Observatory. This partnership will provide summit staff with delicious weekly sustenance, and we’re so grateful for Big Dave’s support. Owners Dave and Sue Hausman (both in purple) visited our summit weather station this past week to take a tour and deliver fresh treats.

Watch Dave Dash Delivery Video

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