Meet The Deadliest Mountain In the United States, with 231 MPH Wind Speeds

Written by Heather Burdo
Updated: May 29, 2023
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Nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Mount Washington is one of the most challenging and treacherous mountains in the United States. With a height of 6,288 feet, this mountain is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States and has gained a reputation for having some of the deadliest weather in the world. The extreme weather on Mount Washington can be treacherous for even the most experienced climbers and hikers, with excessive wind speeds.

In this post, we’ll explore the geography and climate of Mount Washington, the unique weather phenomenon known as the “Mount Washington Effect,” and some of the deadliest accidents and incidents on the mountain.

Mount Washington

Nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Mount Washington is one of the most challenging and treacherous mountains in the United States.

©Cory Knowlton/Shutterstock.com

Geography and Climate of Mount Washington

The unique geography and climate make it a magnet for extreme weather in the area. The mountain’s nickname is “Home of the World’s Worst Weather.” The mountain is at the convergence of several major weather patterns, including the warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and the cool, dry air from Canada. This results in a constant battle between warm and cold air masses that can produce changing and dangerous weather.

Mount Washington

The mountain’s nickname is “Home of the World’s Worst Weather.”

©David Boutin/Shutterstock.com

The “Mount Washington Effect”

One of the most significant factors contributing to Mount Washington’s dangerous weather is the “Mount Washington Effect.” This phenomenon occurs when the prevailing westerly winds from the Atlantic Ocean collide with the mountain’s slopes, causing rapid changes in wind speed and temperature. The wind speeds on Mount Washington have been as high as 231 miles per hour. This is the highest wind speed ever observed by humans on the surface of the Earth. These extreme winds can cause temperatures to plummet, and wind chills can reach life-threatening levels in a matter of minutes.

Where is Mount Washington on a Map?

Mount Washington is located in the White Mountain National Forest outside the city of Sargent’s Purchase in the state of New Hampshire. The area is home to several other mountains of note, including Mount Monroe, Mount Isolation, and Stairs Mountain, and is crossed by the Appalachian Trail.

Deadly Accidents and Incidents on Mount Washington: A Result of Extreme Weather Conditions

Mount Washington is notorious for its extreme weather conditions. The weather led to many deadly accidents and incidents. The conditions of the mountain claimed the lives of many hikers, climbers, and adventurers over the years.

According to a list compiled by New Hampshire Magazine, there have been 161 known deaths on Mount Washington since 1849. The causes of these deaths range from falls and hypothermia to heart attacks and avalanches. One common factor in many of these incidents is the unpredictable and harsh weather on the mountain.

In July 2023, two experienced climbers from Washington state fell to their deaths while climbing Mount Washington. The incident was because of extreme weather conditions that caused them to lose their footing and fall about 150 feet.

Another incident occurred in August 2022. This accident involved a 46-year-old Canadian man who collapsed and died while hiking with his son on Mount Washington because of severe weather conditions.

Skiing Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington

Tuckerman ravine

Tuckerman Ravine is a natural amphitheater-shaped valley famous for its steep slopes and deep snowpack.

©David Boutin/Shutterstock.com

Despite its reputation as one of the deadliest mountains in the United States, Mount Washington is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Tuckerman Ravine, on the eastern side of the mountain, is well-known as a premier backcountry skiing destination.

Tuckerman Ravine is a natural amphitheater-shaped valley famous for its steep slopes and deep snowpack. In the springtime, after all the area ski resorts have closed, skiers and snowboarders flock to Tuckerman Ravine to experience some of the best off-piste skiing on the East Coast. The steep slopes and challenging terrain give advanced skiers and snowboarders an adrenaline rush, while the deep snowpack makes for an unforgettable skiing experience.

Every weekend in the season of late April and early May, skiers lug their equipment up a path to huts located near the edge of Tuckerman Ravine. This skiing community is all about camaraderie and enthusiasm for the sport. It’s one of the East Coast’s popular hubs when it comes to backcountry skiing culture.

Skiing Tuckerman Ravine can also be dangerous. Skiers and snowboarders need to prepare for the challenging terrain and extreme weather. The steep slopes can lead to avalanches and other hazards. Skiers need to be skilled to navigate the terrain safely.

For those looking to take on a thrilling outdoor excursion, Tuckerman Ravine offers an unbeatable experience with breathtaking views. Hikers seeking to summit Mount Washington and conquer its challenging terrain while viewing the majestic mountains need preparation to remain safe.

Resources for Climbers and Hikers

Tuckermans Ravine

The Mount Washington State Parks offers several hiking trails and camping areas, safety guidelines, and recommendations for visitors.

©Diana Nault/Shutterstock.com

The Mount Washington Observatory helps climbers and hikers navigate the dangers of Mount Washington. The observatory researches the mountain’s weather patterns and provides real-time weather updates to climbers and hikers. The observatory also maintains a mountaintop weather station. The team of meteorologists lives and works in extreme conditions year-round. The information gathered by the observatory research on weather phenomena helps make weather predictions more accurate for the area.

The Mount Washington State Parks offers several hiking trails and camping areas, safety guidelines, and recommendations for visitors. You should prepare for extreme weather, even in the summer months when visiting. Bring appropriate gear, including warm clothing, sturdy boots, and wind-resistant outerwear if you plan to hike, climb, or ski. Carry extra food and water, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Mount Washington is a beautiful and challenging location for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. Despite its dangers due to extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain, it is still a popular destination for thrill seekers and nature lovers. The awe-inspiring natural beauty of Mount Washington provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure and thrill.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © David Boutin/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Heather Burdo is a digital marketing enthusiast who has written content for countless industries over the last decade. However, content related to animals, nature, and health has her heart. When she's not working her magic with content, she enjoys being with family, going for walks, camping, and gardening. Self-development is non-negotiable for her.

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