As I am quite involved in the weather in the whites, I'll add a few thoughts. First off, no one has mentioned it, but in season, the avalanche forecast often has good discussions on the forecast as well as snow conditions in the ravine, and should be added to any scouting process IMO
gaiagirl said:
I hope I don't sound stupid, but I honestly never quite believe the Observatory forecasts. If I wanted current conditions on the higher summits, I'd go right to their webpage, of course. But I haven't been quite as thrilled with their forecasts. I suppose I should check it out, it's probably the best I can do.
First off, as the weather in the whites is often not as well behaved as we would like, and all forecasts SHOULD be cross-checked and scrutanized during the decision making process before a hike...
However:
Recent changes in the MWO have created a product that has increased accuracy...
Basically, they decided to move into taking the responsibility of forecasting from the summits, a function that the organization had never done before, soley focusing on their mission to observer and educate. Until then, they just took the NWS higher summits forecasts, which are limited. But the old forecasts are still produced by NWS Grey, ME and are available through weather.gov as a cross check!
They've found our new forecasts to verify quite well internally...but it's not the easiest place to forecast for period. The one thing I can guarentee, is that the MWO puts the most human time into analyzing the weather for the whites, with four degreed mets on staff. Often, if unsure of the forecast, they'll post it, and therefore
the discussion is often more valuable than the 36 hour forecast itself as we discuss the range of possible weather.
Most major websites mt wash forecasts all are repackaged computer models, which hit well sometimes, but can be VERY wrong...that's why meteorologists exist, to interprit the models with their experience and skill...
If you have specific thoughts, I know that they are always open to critique and ideas on style and delivery!
trailbiscuit said:
I think the Obs is usually dead on. I think they're one of your best bets. (Certainly better than the Disaster Channel.) Of course, it's meteorology, so there is certainly a margin for error.
Great to hear! For reasons above, positive feedback is as important as criticism!
BIGEarl said:
Here you go....
A site with a little of everything. Clearly trying to be all things to all people. I used the forecasting models (NOAA MOS FORECASTS) quite a bit last year and they were extremely helpful. If you know the code name for a location then you're on the way. Mount Washington (summit) is KMWN. The Nashua Airport which is very close to my house is KASH.
http://www.crownweather.com/summitsforecast.html
What more could you possibly want?
Earl
Crownweather is a great go to stop for white mountain weather for sure, as it collects data from a large number of areas. I recommend checking it out!
