Boy Scout Rescued Mount Washington
A 15-year-old Boy Scout was rescued near Mount Washington's summit after experiencing a severe allergic reaction. New Hampshire Fish and Game officers conducted the swift rescue operation, highlighting the importance of preparedness and group safety protocols when tackling challenging winter terrain.
- The rescue took place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, after the 15-year-old Boy Scout from Connecticut experienced a significant allergic reaction near the summit. His group administered first aid and alerted a Mount Washington State Park employee, who brought him into a warm building. - A coordinated rescue effort involved New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers, New Hampshire State Parks, and Gorham EMS. A State Parks Snowcat was used to transport a Conservation Officer and EMS personnel up the Mount Washington Auto Road to the summit. - The rescue team reached the teen at approximately 3:11 p.m. and transported him down the mountain in the Snowcat, arriving at the base at 4:00 p.m. He was then taken by ambulance to Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin for further evaluation. - Mount Washington is known for its dangerously volatile weather, especially in winter when conditions can rapidly change to hurricane-force winds and subzero temperatures. The peak has claimed over 150 lives since record-keeping began in 1849, and averages 25 rescues each year. - In February, the average temperature on Mount Washington ranges from a high of 25°F (-4°C) to a low of 8°F (-13°C), with an average wind speed of 13.3 mph (21.4 kph). It is not uncommon for temperatures to drop as low as -45°F with winds gusting over 100 mph. - Officials noted that the Boy Scout and his group were prepared for the hike, which contributed to the successful rescue effort. However, many hikers rescued on Mount Washington are found to be ill-prepared for the extreme winter conditions.
