Mount Washington Records Wind Gusts of 161 MPH, Ties for Historic Peak

JACKSON, N.H. — On February 18, 2025, Mount Washington Observatory reported remarkable wind activity, recording sustained winds between 125 and 135 mph and a peak gust reaching 161 mph. This marks the highest daily peak gust reported at the observatory since 2019, when winds reached 171 mph.

The extraordinary gust on Monday is preliminarily tied for the 19th-highest daily gust recorded since 1935. To enter the top 10, a gust would have to exceed 170 mph, a feat that highlights the mountain’s notoriety for extreme weather conditions.

During the peak wind event, several communities in nearby Maine also experienced significant gusts, with the town of Rangeley reporting wind speeds of up to 61 mph. According to local meteorologists, while these gusts are impressive, they are dwarfed by the fierce winds observed atop Mount Washington.

As of 7:35 a.m. on Tuesday, February 19, 2025, winds at Mount Washington had calmed to 93 mph, accompanied by gusts reaching up to 114 mph, and a chilling wind chill factor of -64°F. This extreme weather raises questions about safety and the impact on infrastructure in the region.

Observatory staff continue to monitor weather conditions closely. “The winds at Mount Washington are some of the strongest ever observed in the United States,” said a spokesperson from the observatory. “We encourage residents and visitors to remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions.” Such severe weather conditions can lead to power outages and hazardous travel.

The combination of Mount Washington’s elevation and geographical location makes it a unique climate zone, known for unpredictable weather patterns. This incident serves as a reminder of nature’s volatility and the necessity for preparedness among those living in the area.