Forest Service warns of avalanches in NH mountains

FRANCONIA — The U.S. Forest Service has issued an early general avalanche advisory for Huntington and Tuckerman ravines in the White Mountains.

Mount Washington is one of the few places in the East susceptible to avalanches. The advisory warns climbers to make avalanche assessments before venturing onto any open slopes.

Six years ago this weekend, two men died in an avalanche on Tuckerman Ravine in what was described at the time as one of the most deadly in recent years.

The state Fish and Game Department is also warning fall hikers that conditions in the mountains is winter-like this time of year and those heading into the wilderness should be prepared. Temperatures can drop go below zero in a short time in the mountains so hikers should bring packs with rain gear and warm clothing.

Fish and Game Lt. Todd Bogardus said people often forget that the days are shorter this time of year and aren't prepared when they find themselves in the woods in the dark.

"An early start, taking maximum advantage of available daylight, is critical, as is having a good flashlight or headlamp, plus spare batteries and a back up source of light," Bogardus said. "Already this season, hikers have ignored what should be obvious and have been caught out after dark with no light source."

If conditions do suddenly change, Bogardus said, "Don't press onward no matter what. Adjust your actual trip to conditions as you find them, and plan ahead for a safe return. Be willing to turn back."

Recent snowy weather covered some trails with snow and ice, he said, making them hard to find and often slowing people down as they try to find a safe way to negotiate slippery sections of trail.

"Hikers should most definitely take a look at high-mountain weather forecasts, to be better prepared for conditions at this time of year," he said.