WARNING for the Adirondack High Peaks

“News from NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
For more information: Gabrielle Done, (518) 402-8000
DEC WARNS OF AVALANCHE DANGER IN THE ADIRONDACKS
Back Country Visitors Cautioned About Snow Conditions
ALBANY, NY -- (03/03/2005; 1300)(EIS) -- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan today warned back country users in the Adirondacks of the danger of avalanches.
"Recent storms have resulted in a significant amount of new snow and we expect an increase in the number of recreational enthusiasts visiting the High Peaks to snowshoe, cross country ski, or simply enjoy the pristine surroundings," Commissioner Sheehan said. "We are cautioning anyone who plans a recreational visit to the Adirondacks, particularly the High Peaks region, to be extremely careful and be prepared for avalanche conditions."
Winter visitors to the back country of the Adirondack Mountains should be aware of avalanche danger and take necessary precautions. Snows have accumulated to sufficient depths on Adirondack Mountain slopes to create conditions conducive to avalanches.
While avalanche danger increases during and immediately after major snowfalls, as well as during thaws, avalanches can occur in any situation where snow, slope and weather conditions combine to create the proper conditions.
The majority of avalanches in the United States occur in the western mountains. However, avalanches do occur in New York and can have dire consequences.
DEC reminds back country winter recreationists to take the following precautions when traveling in avalanche prone terrain:
-- know avalanche rescue techniques;
-- practice safe route finding;
-- carry safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel);
-- never travel alone;
-- know the terrain, weather and snow conditions; and
-- let someone know where they are going.
DEC provides information on avalanche danger and safety precautions on its website www.dec.state.ny.us - select "avalanche" from the subject index. Also a brochure titled "Avalanche Preparedness in the Adirondacks" is available through the website or by contacting the DEC Region 5 office at (518) 897-1200.
Information regarding the terrain, weather and snow conditions can be obtained from DEC Forest Rangers at (518) 897-1300.”

“Cool Lets go Hiking!”

“And take a really deep breath with every step.”

“I remember a winter trip in the Adirondacks when a fighter jet came in low and fast near us (Plattsburgh?). We were ready to ghet buried but nothing happened.

*phew*
last edited: 3/05/05 10:39:19 AM”

“This is actually pretty common for the Adirondacks as they practice low level flying there. I saw my first near lows lake many moons ago. A few years ago, one flew level with me (near crane-on a ledge) with the canopy facing me (wings verticle) about a hundred yards out & thought it was pretty neat.”