The weather atop Mount Washington, New Englands tallest peak can be breathtakingly bad: in April of 1934, observers measured a wind gust of 231 mph, which remains a world record for a surface station. Scientists recognized the potential value in studying such an extreme environment and established an observatory on the mountain in the 1800s.
The mission of the non-profit organization which currently runs the observatory is fourfold: 1. Observe and record the extreme weather cond itions of Mount Washington. 2. Conduct scientific research at that location. 3. Devise educational programs that foster the appreciation of the science, history and natural history of the White Mountains. 4. Promote public safety in the White M ountains. Of primary interest to tourists are the educational programs, which take the form of exhibits, tours, and outreach at the Weather Discovery Center.
