Official 2013-14 Ice-In Thread

[Island Girl]

This is the Official 2013-14 Ice-in Thread. Please post your
comments about this year's Ice-in here.

It is hard to believe that ice-in has started so early in the season. Perhaps this is a sign for a nicely frozen Lake Winnipesaukee for winter sports. This thread typically gets started in late December. With the lake temps so low for the past few days, things are starting to freeze.

There is ice in Moultonborough Bay and in some of the coves. It is reported that Mirror Lake and Lake Wentworth have skimmed over.

It is typically 33-35 degrees at the Weirs when the broads skims over. The Lake temp as of this morning, reported by the Winnipesaukee Dataphone is 35 degrees. (11-30-2013)

The Ice-in page (http://www.rattlesnakecam.com/icein.htm) went live a few minutes ago at www.rattlesnakecam.com/icein.htm (http://www.rattlesnakecam.com/icein.htm). If you have a webcam or know of one, please post the information in this thread and I will add it to the page. If you have a webcam that I have in the defunct section of the ice-in page please let me know if it is ever coming back.

For those of us who are addicted to watching the lake freeze, enjoy. If you are new to the lake, come back often and watch the progress of Ice-in!

Please visit this thread for the latest news and the Ice-in (http://www.rattlesnakecam.com/icein.htm) page for current images of the freezing progress. (Please click on the ads at webcam sites and support the sponsors. This provides revenue to keep the cams alive)

As always Please post your pics of the freezing lake here.

See you on the ice!
IG

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

This upcoming week is supposed to get mild, in the 40s, then back to very cold next week. The night time lows should stay at or below freezing so we may see a lot of freezing and melting before it has a decent base.

[Lakesrider]

Both 19 and 20 mile bays were skimmed over this morning with a light dusting of snow as I drove into Wolfeboro this morning. Wolfeboro Bay was wide open.

[Merrymeeting]

The bays and coves on Merrymeeting Lake were skimmed over yesterday morning. I was surprised when I woke up and saw mist rising off the open water give how cold the water has been. Then I realized that it was 7 degrees out, so relatively speaking, the water was warm.

The Merrymeeting River before the marsh, and most of the Merrymeeting Marsh are now frozen, though I don't think it's very solid.

Today all the skim on the lake is gone. With temps predicted to stay at or above freezing for the next week, I think we'll see a slowing of ice-in.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

This was Langley Cove at Christmas Island this morning. If I took this picture a few weeks ago the Christmas Island Motel would have been on that dirt!

[polarisman14]

I thought I could see some ice on the lake when going across the Gilford bypass the other day. I'm glad to see it coming in so early this year--with any luck we'll have a blockbuster winter. Though I love boating (and it's neat when you get be in the 80s and 90s in May in a mini-heatwave out on the boat) I need to log some miles on my sled this year.

[salty dog]

This was Langley Cove at Christmas Island this morning. If I took this picture a few weeks ago the Christmas Island Motel would have been on that dirt!

Does seem strange to see just a bunch of dirt where the motel stood. I may have missed it in earlier postings about what, if anything is going up on the location. We had ice along the shore here in Beverly last week or so and with the cold snap coming, it won't be long 'til the lake is officially iced in.

[Merrymeeting]

I'm glad to see it coming in so early this year--with any luck we'll have a blockbuster winter.

Mother Nature giveth, and taketh away...

This afternoon was a beautiful, late-March-like afternoon, temps in the mid-40s with sunshine. Almost all of the ice that had formed on rocks along the shoreline has melted, and the road is a bit slushy as the top layer of dirt melts.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

Does seem strange to see just a bunch of dirt where the motel stood. I may have missed it in earlier postings about what, if anything is going up on the location. We had ice along the shore here in Beverly last week or so and with the cold snap coming, it won't be long 'til the lake is officially iced in.
For the first time in a long time you can see Pixie Island from the road.
They are building 17 or so townhouses so it won't last long. Still unclear what's going to happen to the steak house.

[Merrymeeting]

Very surprised to see how much ice formed overnight last night. It's skimmed over about 100 yds out from shore in our cove. There was none at sunset, and the snow is sticking on it in places.

With no temps above freezing forecast for the next 10 days, if it stays calm, we could see early ice-in this year.

[Dhuberty24]

Any updates? Looks like moultonboro bay is caught.

[codeman671]

We went out to Mark today, no ice in sight other than a bit of broken stuff in between mark and mink in the nwz. It looked like the mouth of smith cove has opened up a bit as well.

[Geneva Point]

I was at Geneva Point area in Moultonborough today and Melvin Bay is not frozen yet. There's some thin ice in our cove but the Bay is open.

[gokart-mozart]

I was at Geneva Point area in Moultonborough today and Melvin Bay is not frozen yet. There's some thin ice in our cove but the Bay is open.

Lake Wentworth froze over on November 30 and, despite some challenges in the first week from rain and 40s is now frozen solid.

[Merrymeeting]

The ice on Merrymeeting reported above disappeared once the wind came up, and we are ice free for now.

I expect that if the wind dies, we could get a flash freeze quickly, as happened a few years ago. For about a week, we had beautiful, dark black ice that was smooth as glass. Great for ice boating and skating!

Maybe it'll happen after this weekends storm as all the snow landing in the water chills it more.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

No doubt the water is cold enough to freeze. It just needs a couple of calm nights. Went to check my thermometer this morning but the ice formed. The coves around CI are frozen as well. I didn't turn on my ice aerator on until late January last year. Still cooking outside though!!! That grill will come in today with snow coming :(...George Forman until late March

[Steveo]

No doubt the water is cold enough to freeze. It just needs a couple of calm nights. Went to check my thermometer this morning but the ice formed. The coves around CI are frozen as well. I didn't turn on my ice aerator on until late January last year. Still cooking outside though!!! That grill will come in today with snow coming :(...George Forman until late March

So what are the bags over the posts for?

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

So what are the bags over the posts for?

Too funny Steve O, after I added the photo I said "someone is going to look at those bags and say what the heck is that"
I have solar/battery powered lights that are mounted to the top of the dock posts. You can easily remove the snap top housing, containing the bulbs and wires, from the base of the light. The plastic bags are a lazy effort to keep any rain out of the bases. There's only a mirrored reflector in the base and I am only slightly worried about them filling with water and expanding when they freeze. The bags should help.

[Merrymeeting]

Lots of slush riding the waves on our waterfront today. That's usually an indicator that the water temps are right for freezing and the only thing preventing it is the wave action and wind. Should freeze quickly if things settle down.

[Steveo]

Too funny Steve O, after I added the photo I said "someone is going to look at those bags and say what the heck is that"
I have solar/battery powered lights that are mounted to the top of the dock posts. You can easily remove the snap top housing, containing the bulbs and wires, from the base of the light. The plastic bags are a lazy effort to keep any rain out of the bases. There's only a mirrored reflector in the base and I am only slightly worried about them filling with water and expanding when they freeze. The bags should help.

Just drill some weep holes in the corners of the plates, it won't effect it structurally

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

Just drill some weep holes in the corners of the plates, it won't effect it structurally
This is the light. There is really nowhere to drill without cosmetic damage. The last dock lights I had allowed spiders and other bugs into the housing and by summers end it was filled with cocoons and dead bugs. These lights snap on at the top and when secure keep the inside of the lights free from bugs and other crap. The bags, which are heavier than ordinary plastic bags, aren't necassary but should help keep them clean.

[Wetbiker]

This is the light. There is really nowhere to drill without cosmetic damage. The last dock lights I had allowed spiders and other bugs into the housing and by summers end it was filled with cocoons and dead bugs. These lights snap on at the top and when secure keep the inside of the lights free from bugs and other crap. The bags, which are heavier than ordinary plastic bags, aren't necassary but should help keep them clean.

Where did you get those lights??

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

Where did you get those lights??

Lowes in Gilford carries them. They worked great this past summer. The LED light has a blue tone to it.
They come with two rechargeable AA batteries which are recharged through the solar panel.
http://www.lowes.com/pd_254599-67197-82191_0__?productId=3184405&Ntt=solar+powered+lights&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dsolar%2Bpowered%2Blights&facetInfo=

[Merrymeeting]

Back to our regularly scheduled topic of Ice-in...

As suspected, large portions of Merrymeeting skimmed over last night. The open areas have plumes of steam rising this morning as more heat goes out of the water. If it stays this calm, I'd expect the whole lake to skim over by the end of the day.

However, the wind is supposed to come up later in the morning. It will be interesting to see how/if the ice survives.

[Merrymeeting]

While I can only see about 1/3rd of the lake from my house, and the other end usually freezes last, I believe we have ice-in on Merrymeeting.

It skimmed over the night before last. Wind yesterday broke up much of it. But for the first time, several large ice floes remained at the end of the day, and they rejoined during the night. I woke up at about 2:30 last night, and in the bright moonlight I could still see several areas of open water where the water was rippling. But by this morning, those were closed up and there is now ice as far as we can see from this end. Once it closes up and the wind can’t whip up the waves, it usually stays. Especially with the temps we have now!

Most of the surface is rough, and it will be covered with snow tonight. Sadly, I’m sure we’ll be hearing reports over the next few days of snowmobiles going in as the surface will look inviting to some dummies, but I’m sure won’t be safe in all areas.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

I found the same ice formation around my docks at sunrise this morning. I noticed most of the shorelines and coves along WB Blvd. were iced up as I drove to DD's. The rest of Paugus Bay was still water but since then most of Paugus Bay has formed a skim of ice. I have never seen it form so fast in the day light. The water is dead calm and the lake is rapidly turning to ice.

[mcdude]

PaugusBayFireFighter: You got me good with your signature that appears to be a bug inside my monitor screen. Yes....I was sitting here trying to squish the bug. Was I surprised when I scrolled up and the bug moved!

[JPC]

McDude, he got me yesterday. I actually hit my screen a couple times before I realized it wasn't real.

[tis]

Me too. I tried to get the bug off the screen and then decided it was in the screen. Finally I realized it was just PBFF. :laugh:

[upthesaukee]

PBFF owes me for a new laptop screen... I'll be darned if that little bug was going to get the best of me. Back to Ice In.

[Bear Island South]

Ice in is definitely happening, it probably won't last but we are ahead of the game from last year.
Here are some shots from the south end of Bear looking towards Mark Is.

[IslandRadio]

It's definitely freezing over on the South-Western side of Rattlesnake.

http://www.rattlesnakeisland.net/image_snow.jpg

[ishoot308]

Ice is starting to form around my dock on Welch. Considering this is in the middle of the lake, I think a few calm and cold nights and we could be fully iced over in a couple weeks!!

Think Ice!

Dan

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

Paugus Bay this morning, looking south at Little Island

[Merrymeeting]

While I can only see about 1/3rd of the lake from my house, and the other end usually freezes last, I believe we have ice-in on Merrymeeting.

It skimmed over the night before last. Wind yesterday broke up much of it. But for the first time, several large ice floes remained at the end of the day, and they rejoined during the night. I woke up at about 2:30 last night, and in the bright moonlight I could still see several areas of open water where the water was rippling. But by this morning, those were closed up and there is now ice as far as we can see from this end. Once it closes up and the wind can’t whip up the waves, it usually stays. Especially with the temps we have now!

Most of the surface is rough, and it will be covered with snow tonight. Sadly, I’m sure we’ll be hearing reports over the next few days of snowmobiles going in as the surface will look inviting to some dummies, but I’m sure won’t be safe in all areas.

To misquote Mark Twain, my reports of ice-in on Merrymeeting were greatly exaggerated.

It turns out that the larger portions of the lake that I couldn't see are still open. Even more interesting, the portions that were ice covered are opening up again. This despite the fact that temps haven't gone much above 20 for the past 72 hours or more. I'm guessing it's a combination of insulating snow allowing melting from below, coupled with winds that are now picking up again. Things are opening up when I would have expected the reverse.

[jazzman]

Just a few small pieces floating in the protection of my breakwater at the se end of the broads.

[playinghooky]

Alton Bay is somewhat iced in from the bridge out to around Echo Point. There are some unfrozen spots in between. The problem is the snow that fell on top of the ice that was not fully frozen will make like a blanket of insulation on top of the ice and not allow the ice to fully harden making for unsafe conditions. Supposed to get down below zero tonight but the winds are howling so not much progress will be made overnight.

[Pine Island Guy]

well I guess it's time to pull the Alumacraft, it doesn't look like we'll make it out by boat this weekend unless the cooling trend changes dramatically...

from the webcam this morning, good ice forming from shore well out to the broader open areas... bearcam also looked like there's a good skim out on the lake... will be interesting to see what happens with the predicted snow today, too bad because the way it looks now it would be ideal for skating, ice-boating, etc!

my Christmas wish... please Santa make it freeze fast, solid, and thick! -PIG

[Lakegeezer]

The time lapse link (http://www.winnipesaukee.com/index.php?pageid=weirscamtimelapse) from the WeirsCam shows the ice setting up this morning. If we get the snow tonight, we'll know for sure what's frozen in.

[SteveA]

Just before sunrise today.. while taking some Moon Set pictures.. got this ice forming


8706

[DRH]

Just before sunrise today.. while taking some Moon Set pictures.. got this ice forming ...

Steve, your photographs are absolutely first class! Great work.

[Pine Island Guy]

the snow is a great indicator of what's froze out there... the latest view from Pine Island cam (looking due east toward's m'boro neck)...

-PIG

[windsail]

The pictures are just beautiful! Can't wait to move up there. Thanks for the updates.

[Bear Island South]

Is frozen, this is the earliest I have seen since we bought in 2007.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

I have pictures from last New Years of Paugus Bay ice and snow free. We are way ahead of last years ice in. Mild temps in the next few days but it looks like the ice is here!

[ishoot308]

Woke up this morning to see some nice ice forming even in the broads!

The first pic shows Esatern tip of Welch island on far left and Sandy island in the center.

The second pic show the South and West side of Welch. Looks like everything from Round island North is frozen in!

Hopefully the wind stays calm and does not blow it all away!!

Dan

[mikea]

Many, many thanks for all the updated info and pictures... please keep them rolling in! Seeing these helps overcome the disappointment of not being able to get to NH this winter...

[WIS]

https://scontent-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/s403x403/1525279_10151908301676713_253098611_n.jpg

Ice all the way to Sleepers Island.

[upthesaukee]

All the way to Little Mark, and over to Black Point.:)

[Webbsatwinni]

Hope it makes it through the warm up this weekend, I am having island withdrawls!

[Slickcraft]

When I drove by Ames Farm today the view was of open water. It is going to be a while.

[BoulderBronco]

I think the lake temp thermometer is broken.

[Grady223]

.....next week. The bays seem frozen over early this year. Any ice developments since 12/20.
Thanks for the update for us down south (PA). ;)

[ishoot308]

Have some nice ice forming off Welch! If it can stay calm and cold long enough to lock it up, we should be good to go real soon!!

Think ice!!

Dan

[Blue Thunder]

Next week looks very favorable for ice growth as long as the bitter cold that's coming doesn't include wind. So PBFF, I'm caving in!!! It took me six weeks but I think next week will bring true ice-in.

BT

[ishoot308]

Nice progress!!

[Island Girl]

....but still a lot of open water.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

Maybe we will get an update from Emerson Aviation soon?

[codeman671]

Maybe we will get an update from Emerson Aviation soon?

We still have a bit to go, Emerson flying right now solely to verify would be wasted fuel. We seem to be on track, or just slightly ahead of a normal ice-in.

[HellRaZoR004]

Hopefully you can see this picture from Gunstock's facebook page.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1540331_665647700153849_1628488355_o.jpg

[ishoot308]

Here's a couple pics I took just a few minutes ago from my deck in Gilford.

The first pic shows a large patch of ice coming from the Southwest side of Welch island which goes across the entire lake to the Belknap point area.

The second pic shows Welch at 9:00 o'clock. As you can see the main section of the broads are still open water. There is some minor skimming that can be seen as well as some large ice flows floating through.

The bad news is the high winds predicted for Monday will most likely blow all the ice you see away. :emb: The good news is a long period of cold weather is predicted starting Tuesday night so hopefully things will lock up! :)

Dan

[LadyJane]

lovin' the pictures.....THANKS !!!

[Webbsatwinni]

Quick video from my webcam on the northern end of Rattlesnake, looks like we are finally forming.

https://www.dropcam.com/c/122de03746724805836b7655c8c5d46f.mp4

I think the link will work without a drop cam login.

[Merrymeeting]

The winds have begun in the past 30 mins. It will be interesting to see how the open areas and ice pack react to what's coming.

[Pine Island Guy]

Here's the latest from Pine Island - the first looking east towards M'boro Neck and Five Mile, the second view is south along the west side of Bear... with the projected cold snap this week, looks like we'll be able to walk out this coming weekend

Happy New Year to all!!! -PIG

[ishoot308]

Here's what the wind did to the ice around Welch today...

The first pic was taken early this morning around 6:30 A.M. before the wind started. The second pic was taken this afternoon around 4:00 P.M....

Dan

[MAXUM]

Here's the latest from Pine Island - the first looking east towards M'boro Neck and Five Mile, the second view is south along the west side of Bear... with the projected cold snap this week, looks like we'll be able to walk out this coming weekend

Happy New Year to all!!! -PIG

Hmm wonder if it'll be safe enough for a sled. Really want to get out to BI but to lazy to walk out! :rolleye2:

Definitely looks good though!

[rsmlp]

open yesterday but looks locked up this morning

[JB Long Island]

Looking west off Long Island yesterday there was just one open stretch visible out in the broads - and looked like the ice had held at sunset as the wind was dying so it must be frozen over by now !!

[Merrymeeting]

Still a lot of open water showing on the SnakeEyes webcam.

[Webbsatwinni]

Looks like all of the ice was taken away by the waves and the broads look open. The cold should help that!

[ishoot308]

Here's a couple iphone pics from this morning of the Welch / broads area.

Ice in by the weekend!

Dan

[Island Girl]

The view from Snake Eyes shows ice all the way across to Tuftonborough Neck. It looks like there is a stream of water in the middle. Websatwinni, do you have a shot from your place? ishoot308, how about a pic or two?

IG

[Webbsatwinni]

The view from Snake Eyes shows ice all the way across to Tuftonborough Neck. It looks like there is a stream of water in the middle. Websatwinni, do you have a shot from your place? ishoot308, how about a pic or two?

IG

Here you go! Last night just before dark and a current pic. I am looking to see if there are any good ice growing videos on there and I will post.

[Webbsatwinni]

It happened in the dark so the vids didn't show much. If it grows today and I get it, I will share.

[playinghooky]

The first bob house appeared in Alton Bay a few days ago. I'm sure more will join this weekend if not sooner.

[Island Girl]

Thanks for the pics. It looks like there is still a lot of open water. Maybe over the weekend. More frigid temps coming. I got a note from a friend in Ottawa last night. It was -30.

IG

[Webbsatwinni]

I was lucky enough to have the ice line stop in front of the cam today, I took a few images and made a slide show so everyone can enjoy!

http://www.photosnack.com/97DBCB9A9F7/ph50zeye

[MAXUM]

If that doesn't skim over tonight with the winds forecast to come it's going to rip up what ice has formed. Next couple of days are going to be VERY cold, windy, snowy and down right wintery.

Observations from today...

Meredith bay is all locked in although off in the distance there looked as though there may be a sliver of open water right before spindle point, hard to see that far away. There was one person out on the ice fishing, no bob houses yet.

From sheps, ice looked good all the way out to Bear, Pine and beyond. I walked out on the ice about 15-20 feet or so and it felt good and solid under foot, IE no stress cracking or anything like that. Hard to say how thick it is there but I'd estimate it to be at least 3-4". I had intentions of walking out to BI but being alone and not having an ice auger to test along the way I decided against it even though I probably would have been fine. By this weekend I have no doubts it'll be good. Oh parking lot is plowed.

From Cattle Landing, that is all locked up walked out a little ways on the ice there, again felt good and solid as well. Parking lot is plowed.

Levitt Beach, couple ice shacks on the beach, one guy was out about half way to the beaver islands in a temporary ice shack. There is a skating rink somebody made there just off the beach, ice again was obviously in good shape there. Parking lot there is NOT plowed.

Center Harbor, a few ice shacks out one guy was also out on a 4wheeler.

Area lakes and ponds:

Pemegewassit (or however you spell it) was locked up tight, evidence of snowmobile traffic on it and a few ice shacks.

Waukewan, locked up some evidence of people on it but no snowmobile tracks that I could see.

Winona, locked up with some snowmoblie tracks on it.

Kanasatka, locked up with lots of snowmoble tracks on it.

Little Squam, locked up some ice shacks and 4wheelers/snowmobiles on it.

Big Squam, locked up from where I could see along Rt 25, no evidence of anyone on it yet.

Snowmobile trail conditions, as observed doing a drive by:

Corridor 8 rail bed along Waukewan, groomed, rails covered and looked outstanding.

Corridor 15 Castle Trail parking lot, thin but covered, trails had been packed only, sign by the groomers left on the junction sign indicated that the did not drag the trails due to lack of adequate snow to work with. However they looked to be in decent shape with minimal coverage. About 7 trucks in the lot.

Local trails all looked ride-able although some were not yet groomed.

Corridor 8/5 Baker River Valley, Plymouth area, MINT along Rt 25.

Snow coverage is thinner towards Moultonboro as compared to Meredith, probably due to shadowing of the mountains.

It looks as though where the groomers could get out there and work their magic they did what they could. Any additional snow fall will really set things up nice for this weekend.

Sorry no pics, didn't have my camera with me.

[mikea]

What a great info update! love to be there to see it in person but that sadly is not going to happen yet! Still, you guys are doing a brilliant job so many thanks!

Sorry no pics, didn't have my camera with me.

Seriously! no camera in your phone???

Out of interest, how many of you folk use smartphones and who still use ordinary cellphones sans camera etc ???

Happy New Year one and all...

Mike

[Webbsatwinni]

A little movement

[CAVU]

I can tell you Mboro bay Suissevale down through 19 mi bay appears frozen pretty good. I walked out there yesterday. Solid as walking on regular ground. Ice huts and a few cars out at 19 mi bay. Numerous snow mobile tracks all through out the bay. Some was out Kite-ice boarding yesterday in Melvin Bay.. The area, especially through Suissevale has been frozen for probably a month or so.

[HellRaZoR004]

Be careful on the ice - saw that a groomer fell through the ice up in ME already, Pleasant Pond.

[gtxrider]

What a great info update! love to be there to see it in person but that sadly is not going to happen yet! Still, you guys are doing a brilliant job so many thanks!



Seriously! no camera in your phone???

Out of interest, how many of you folk use smartphones and who still use ordinary cellphones sans camera etc ???

Happy New Year one and all...

Mike

Mine still has a rotary dial:rolleye2: Just saw Nashua on the Weather channel getting snow at this time. Will snow help or hurt the ICE? Please keep the pictures coming.

[HellRaZoR004]

Snow will hurt the ice - it insulates it from the cold temps.

[ishoot308]

I don't think this snow will have much effect on the ice. Because of the extreme cold temps, the snow will be very light and the expected winds will simply blow most of it to the shoreline.

Dan

[MAXUM]

What a great info update! love to be there to see it in person but that sadly is not going to happen yet! Still, you guys are doing a brilliant job so many thanks!



Seriously! no camera in your phone???

Out of interest, how many of you folk use smartphones and who still use ordinary cellphones sans camera etc ???

Happy New Year one and all...

Mike

I do, but the better question is did I have it with me and the answer is heck no! I was forced with my new job to get a smartphone (AKA busybox) which I cannot stand. Matter of fact I hate em, I just want a simple phone. Texting, internet, email all that nonsense I have lived without just fine! Sadly you can only be an IT guy for so long before it catches up with you. Even worse it's an IPhone... I'm not a big apple fan.

[mikea]

I do, but the better question is did I have it with me and the answer is heck no! I was forced with my new job to get a smartphone (AKA busybox) which I cannot stand. Matter of fact I hate em, I just want a simple phone. Texting, internet, email all that nonsense I have lived without just fine! Sadly you can only be an IT guy for so long before it catches up with you. Even worse it's an IPhone... I'm not a big apple fan.

Okay, my reason exactly for asking as I'm totally the opposite to you (just as well we are not all the same huh!) My iPhone is seldom far from my reach and I would be totally lost without it...

[MDoug]

Is power out on Bear? Bear Cam is down.

[Bear Island South]

Is power out on Bear? Bear Cam is down.

Just took this snapshot, there is power on the south end of Bear.

[MAXUM]

Okay, my reason exactly for asking as I'm totally the opposite to you (just as well we are not all the same huh!) My iPhone is seldom far from my reach and I would be totally lost without it...

Yep I don't think I will ever suffer the fate of being lost without my itoy, matter of fact a couple of times I forgot my phone at home and had to suffer all weekend long at the camp without it. It was fantastic!

However I do never leave for the camp with out my ham radio!

Next trip though, I'll bring the busy box just for you Mike so I can take pics! No doubt I will be there with the sleds this weekend.

[mikea]

Yep I don't think I will ever suffer the fate of being lost without my itoy, matter of fact a couple of times I forgot my phone at home and had to suffer all weekend long at the camp without it. It was fantastic!

However I do never leave for the camp with out my ham radio!

Next trip though, I'll bring the busy box just for you Mike so I can take pics! No doubt I will be there with the sleds this weekend.

Lucky so & so... wish I was there... enjoy!

[webmaster]

Okay, my reason exactly for asking as I'm totally the opposite to you (just as well we are not all the same huh!) My iPhone is seldom far from my reach and I would be totally lost without it...Please don't hijack the ice-in thread!

[chaseisland]

OK, Snake Eyes is showing ice to Tuftonboro neck. Will someone declare "ice in"? Oh, fudge, I'll do it. "ICE IN"!!

[FLAG!]

Check out the Erica's cam (Gunstock Acres I believe) it shows open water remaining in the broads.

[Island Girl]

There is still open water off the north east part of Rattlesnake Island. If you enlarge the Snake Eyes image you can see the open water.

On the other hand it looks like ice from Chestnut Cove to Rattlesnake Island!

[mikea]

Please don't hijack the ice-in thread!

My apologies!

[ishoot308]

Looks pretty well locked up on the West side of Welch. Since this is one of, if not the last area to freeze, I can't imagine ice in not being declared sometime tomorrow.

Heading to the Turks and Caicos islands tomorrow for a week to do a little bone fishing and soak in some sunshine and umbrella drinks. When I get back, I will be putting the bob house out and doing a little ice fishing... with a sunburn! :D

Looks like the start of a great winter on the big lake!!

Dan

[FLAG!]

That sounds like a hell of a couple of weeks ishoot308! Enjoy!

[Island Girl]

Hopefully the open water off Rattlesnake will freeze over as the winds die down tonight and tomorrow. I just want to make sure people know the lake is not completely frozen.

IG

[Webbsatwinni]

The ice line is progressing. We drove by the lake yesterday afternoon on our way home from snowmobiling and there was still a large open area of water. By the cam it looks like last nights cold helped.

[Webbsatwinni]

Yesterday afternoon, you can see the water line in the distance.

[Island Girl]

It would be nice if someone took a nice ride and took some pics. Does anyone have any open water to report?

Also looking for reports of the lake groaning.

IG

[Just Sold]

Smith Cove today, looking across to Welch Island from Lincoln Park in Gilford and Alton Bay today. BTW they have started marking for the Airport Runway in Alton Bay
8785

8786

8787

8788

[BoulderBronco]

My brother was out in Meredith bay today with the snowmobiles and fishing gear. He drilled a number of holes throughout the middle of the bay (about half way between Weirs and the town docks) and had 6-7" of ice at each hole. Great snowmobiling conditions according to him. He didn't travel very far due to the safety factor. But I'm sure down by the docks there is a good deal more ice.

[MAXUM]

Took a walk out to my place this morning from sheps... yes this time the camera came with... I also put three holes in the ice one at about 20 foot off shore, then about 100 then about 500. All were showing 4-5" not enough for me to feel comfortable enough to take the sleds, so walking it was.....

[MAXUM]

Ah finally hit the western shore of BI, that steam is coming off a little open water around the dock, ice eater hard at work. It was a mere -5 but of all the pics I took today this one is the money shot. Guess these the iphone is good for something, taking pictures!


We had a tree - a mature one at that get snapped, I guess the winds there got pretty bad. Oh well next time I head out there will bring the chain saw.

There were quite a few that got uprooted too. Pretty amazing. Snow was pretty deep on the island. Close to 2 foot deep.

[MAXUM]

After that took the sleds out for a ride up the castle trail and out into ossipee and Madison. Trails were in pretty good shape, but the best of course is the view from atop Mt Shaw....

Was a real pretty day out today albeit was cold. Still rather be out there enjoying it than sitting inside all day!

[MAXUM]

Oh and one more thing, the parking lot at Sheps was NOT plowed, could be that it will be later but is not as of today

[MAXUM]

Well I got to thinking, ya know leave it to me to screw up taking pictures... everyone can probably use a little laugh at my expense, and I'm still not sure how I did this, but my fingers were really cold and I'm trying to take a picture and what do you know the darn thing takes a picture of me instead. I'm still not sure how I did it - guess one of these days I should read the directions on how to use that stupid thing! Never claimed to be the sharpest knife in the drawer :rolleye2:

[mikea]

Well I got to thinking, ya know leave it to me to screw up taking pictures... everyone can probably use a little laugh at my expense, and I'm still not sure how I did this, but my fingers were really cold and I'm trying to take a picture and what do you know the darn thing takes a picture of me instead. I'm still not sure how I did it - guess one of these days I should read the directions on how to use that stupid thing! Never claimed to be the sharpest knife in the drawer :rolleye2:

Thanks for all the superb pictures (with possibly one exception :) ) and information... really appreciated as was remembering to take the image capture device!

[JB Long Island]

Also cut holes yesterday, honest 6in of ice off Wildwood beautiful sunset.
Maxum- I believe my son and I were the two guys at the top of Mt Shaw alongside you yesterday - small world.

[BKIceFish]

I'm BoulderBronco's brother and just registered here. Enjoy reading everyone's thoughts. I was able to easily get out onto Meredith Bay (about halfway from Eagle Island to the Town Docks kinda by Sachem Cove) with my snowmobile and Auger. Consistent 6-7" of ice everywhere I checked although admittedly I did not venture out far. And yes i checked many depths of ice on foot before bringing the sled out. Had a great day on the ice. As did Mrs BK and our little one (for about 10 minutes). Never too young to get on the ice!

[Blue Thunder]

Well I got to thinking, ya know leave it to me to screw up taking pictures... everyone can probably use a little laugh at my expense, and I'm still not sure how I did this, but my fingers were really cold and I'm trying to take a picture and what do you know the darn thing takes a picture of me instead. I'm still not sure how I did it - guess one of these days I should read the directions on how to use that stupid thing! Never claimed to be the sharpest knife in the drawer :rolleye2:

Well Maxum, that picture would be considered a "selfie" which is the rage on Twitter these days....you are more progressive than you give yourself credit for.

BT

[Slickcraft]

Well just down the road from the point looking over the motel. The often last to freeze section between the point and Welch has a small area that has the appearance of open water. More likely it froze over last night in the calm cold air but at over 1/2 mile away it is hard to tell.

I suppose that I should have walked out to check, it just didn't occur to me at the time.:D

[Blue Thunder]

Here is an excellent view of where the ice situation stands looking from space.
Winnipesaukee in the center and Sebago Lake to the right.
BT

[IceoutNH]

Ice Out, a consignment shop located at 24 Mt. Major Hwy in Alton Bay recently announced the winners of the first annual Ice In at Alton Bay contest. First prize went to David Anson, second prize to Jim Raschilla and third prize winner was John Bowles. Thanks to all who entered!

[NYCtoLSP]

Here is an excellent view of where the ice situation stands looking from space.
Winnipesaukee in the center and Sebago Lake to the right.
BT

I know! I was looking at that image today too and thought that there must still be a lot of open water out there. Too bad none of the webcams are focused in those areas.

[MAXUM]

Also cut holes yesterday, honest 6in of ice off Wildwood beautiful sunset.
Maxum- I believe my son and I were the two guys at the top of Mt Shaw alongside you yesterday - small world.

Awesome! I hope you had a good day riding we certainly did. Perfect weekend to get out there and enjoy the great outdoors.

[CAVU]

Talked to a guy, I guess around Suissevale/States landing, the ice is 2 1/2 ft thick.. Depending on the conditions tomorrow I may take the hand auger out and see for myself..

[chipj29]

Talked to a guy, I guess around Suissevale/States landing, the ice is 2 1/2 ft thick.. Depending on the conditions tomorrow I may take the hand auger out and see for myself..
2 1/2 feet? 30"? I find that hard to believe.

[Blue Thunder]

2 1/2 feet? 30"? I find that hard to believe.

me too.....

[Merrymeeting]

2 1/2 feet? 30"? I find that hard to believe.

Has it ever been anything more than about 18"?

[steve c]

over 3 ft.............1988

[mikea]

Talked to a guy, I guess around Suissevale/States landing, the ice is 2 1/2 ft thick.. Depending on the conditions tomorrow I may take the hand auger out and see for myself..

Was this guy a 'fisherman' by any chance ...;)

[CAVU]

Was this guy a 'fisherman' by any chance ...;)

hahaha, he is.. It was at States landing, they actually drilled close to the beach to gauge the depth and the hit the sand first. Frozen to the bottom. I want to go out and drill some holes and see for myself. I was going to go today but, its just miserable out. Dangerous driving too, I went past a car at states landing and shannon brook, the guy went off the road, nearly into the brook!! they we're towing him out and doing some heavy duty sanding.. I'll go tomorrow, I will report back and post pics for proof... FYI, it has frozen up this area since around thanksgiving, It may not be that far fetched..

[MAXUM]

All the more reason for folks to be careful out there, it may very well be 2.5 feet thick in one place yet areas in the broads are still open water. To many assume oh it's plenty good here and expect that to be the case across the board. Those are usually the ones that end up in the drink!

[CrownRay]

So, what's the early prognosis on the Pond Hockey event? Looks like it should be good to go this year on Meredith bay? Always a great weekend!

[FLAG!]

This weather is driving me crazy. I'm finally getting to head to Wolfeboro to do a little riding and maybe some ice fishing. Now we get 50+ degrees and rain (here in central mass). I know it's going to get cold again, but should I be worried about the trails losing what snow they had or is the base solid enough to survive a day of warmth and water?

Also, has anyone seen ice houses or snowmobiles on the lake in Wolfeboro?

[tis]

It doesn't look good. The lake looks like it is going to be mostly ice now and I bet the trails are thin although I don't know that. The rain did a number on the snow.

[HellRaZoR004]

The freeze tonight is going to be great for ice skating....not so much for liquid cooled sled :(

[hilltopper]

This weather is driving me crazy. I'm finally getting to head to Wolfeboro to do a little riding and maybe some ice fishing. Now we get 50+ degrees and rain (here in central mass). I know it's going to get cold again, but should I be worried about the trails losing what snow they had or is the base solid enough to survive a day of warmth and water?


From what I can see the trails in Meredith held their base...still all white with no/very little brown to be seen. If you had a fan cooled sled with a studded track you could probably ride today. If not you will probably want to wait for a few inches of snow (which I don't see in the forecast anytime soon).

[ghfromaltonbay]

Glad to see the snow and ice are holding on the trails and the lake. Hard to believe, but today it's actually colder here in NJ. Right now it's 8 degrees in Clifton and the WeirsCam is showing 11. We were at 55 around 1 am on Monday and the temps plummeted to 28 by 9 pm that evening. This a.m. we hit a low of 6 before dawn. No wonder our newspaper had an article about "the experts" changing the term of "global warming" to "climate change".

[Merrymeeting]

Glad to see the snow and ice are holding on the trails and the lake.

While the trails may still have some hardpack base, don't assume the lake does. It is actually amazing how much snow was lost yesterday, especially on the ice. Most lake areas are now in great shape for skating, but not so much for riding.

The lake is mostly solid ice right now.

[TJNed]

So... Has Ice in been declared yet?:confused:

[Lakegeezer]

So... Has Ice in been declared yet?:confused:The satellite picture today (http://ge.ssec.wisc.edu/modis-today/index.php?satellite=t1&product=true_color&date=2014_01_07_007&overlay_sector=false&overlay_state=true&overlay_coastline=true&sector=USA4&resolution=250m) is a bit hazy, but compared to Sunday's shot (http://ge.ssec.wisc.edu/modis-today/index.php?satellite=t1&product=true_color&date=2014_01_05_005&overlay_sector=false&overlay_state=true&overlay_coastline=true&sector=USA4&resolution=250m), it looks like a large piece of ice broke off and drifted south. No ice in yet.

[ishoot308]

Holy cow! What's going on with the weather up there anyway! I was completely expecting to log in and find out that "ice in" would be declared by now!

After emailing fellow forum member "Slickcraft" I have been informed that once again that darn stubborn spot between Welch and Belknap Point still has a little open water... Would someone PLEASE call the Belknap Point motel and tell them to turn off their hot tub so the ice will freeze!!! Sheesh! :D

I was truly hoping to get the bob house out this weekend but heck, might have to wait another week to be comfortable with ice conditions! Fat guy in shack on thin ice = not good!!

In the meantime here's my "Corona Moment" for you all while waiting for ice in....

Dan

[Slickcraft]

You should be able to get the bob house on the lake this weekend without getting those feet wet! It is 5 deg here right now. Put some shoes on just in case.

[dippasan]

Can anyone provide any info regarding the area between WAM and Sleepers Isl.
I 'd love to walk out as soon as ice permits.

Thanks

[Slickcraft]

We were surprised to see open water today extending south from Welch past Ellacoya. That is Welch on the left.

[Bear Island South]

The freeze tonight is going to be great for ice skating....not so much for liquid cooled sled :(

Looks like we will have to strap the skates on to get over to the island.

[CampChaos]

Hello, was wondering if anyone has been out of Sheps yet? I was thinking I might make a run for my Camp on the point of Deep Cove and was wondering if the landing in the back was frozen. Last year they were pulling a barge apart and the circulator off the docks kept it open for most of the season. Also have they turned down the circulator on the Cattle docks? Last year there was open water between the cattle and bear?

[CAVU]

Well I went out in search of the elusive 2 1/2ft of ice up by suissevale. First I hadn't use my ice auger in about 10yrs. Needless to say the blades were a bit dull. Second issue I had is I didn't go out far enough. I tend to forgot how much drop the lake in fall I got down to about 15in before I sand.. However, that hole took a good half hour to dig and I was pretty cold. So, I'm going to sharpen the blades and go out again tomorrow.. Attached are a couples, one with the measurement of 13in, the other just a random pic of auger.
In any event I would say its pretty safe up here.. It would great for ice skates.

[Merrymeeting]

I talked to some ice fishermen on Merrymeeting today. They were reporting about 9" close to where a stream enters. It's probably close to 12" in most areas.

No sign of snow anywhere on the ice. The surface is smooth enough that you could skate the length of the lake if desired.

[Webbsatwinni]

Any updates on the open water? Can't see it on any cams.

[ishoot308]

Any updates on the open water? Can't see it on any cams.

I just spoke with my sister in law who is at my house in Gilford. She said there is still open water in the same place where Slickcraft shows in his picture...

Dan

[Slickcraft]

I just spoke with my sister in law who is at my house in Gilford. She said there is still open water in the same place where Slickcraft shows in his picture...

Dan

If anything that wedge of open water is even wider today. It starts narrow at the south end of Welch and then widens considerably nearing the northeast side of Diamond. What is going on??

First is the very plausible theory by ishoot308 that it is the motel hot tub at blame.

2nd there is the mundane appeal to physics: the same NW wind that causes a pressure ridge just off shore from Welch has opened a lead in the ice, sort of fan shaped from the origin at south Welch. Yawn.

3rd and most likely: a new geothermal vent has opened! Now here in West Alton sits the center of an ancient volcano, Rattlesnake is part of the outer ring dike. And the center of the Ossipee range was also an ancient volcano. And things are heating up in Middle Earth with the possibility that Sauron is regaining strength at this very time. There have been past stories of strange goings on along the north side of Diamond. So we will have to keep careful watch on that open wedge of water.

[Hamiltony]

Hello, was wondering if anyone has been out of Sheps yet? I was thinking I might make a run for my Camp on the point of Deep Cove and was wondering if the landing in the back was frozen. Last year they were pulling a barge apart and the circulator off the docks kept it open for most of the season. Also have they turned down the circulator on the Cattle docks? Last year there was open water between the cattle and bear?

Went out to Bear from cattle last year, if you head into the woods to the south of the Cattle ramp you should be able to get onto solid ice about a hundred feet that way. My brothers and I did last year, and there was no problem walking over to Bear once we got onto the ice. This was much later in the year (early March), but that's my best advice for getting around the circulator at cattle.

[FLAG!]

I was in Wolfeboro this past weekend and we were disapointed by the weather on Saturda. Lots of rain prevented us from doing what we really wanted to do. Sunday I took the kids ice fishing for about 2 hours on Crescent lake. Easily 12+ inches of ice, but that shouldn't come a s a surprise. I think that little lake froze over in November. The wind and the 2 inches of water on the ice prevented it from being very comfortable for the kids. We managed a couple perch and a pickerel. We'll hit it again this weekend. Hopefully there will be some snow on the ice. When I left sunday afternoon there was still 8 - 10 inches of snow on the ground. Is that going to survive the week?

[BroadHopper]

Winni becoming a geothermal hot spring? Year round boating!

[Merrymeeting]

When I left sunday afternoon there was still 8 - 10 inches of snow on the ground. Is that going to survive the week?

Much of it gone already. The rain today and the temps for until the weekend will melt more. And no big storms in sight.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

Winni becoming a geothermal hot spring? Year round boating!

Not to mention... Snow Monkeys will be a lot of fun to swim with !!!

[snowflake]

Any sign of ice - in yet? Weather keeps changing, warmish here in Boston.

[ishoot308]

Any sign of ice - in yet? Weather keeps changing, warmish here in Boston.

Couldn't get any pictures as it was too foggy this morning but there is still a massive section of open water from the Southern tip of Welch island that extends all the way to the shore at Ellacoya State Park. From Ellacoya it looks like it goes past Lake Shore park and extends somewhere past Somerset towards Diamond Island.

Going to be a while still...

Dan

[mcdude]

Check out the Erica's cam (Gunstock Acres I believe)

http://www.wunderground.com/webcams/erikas/1/show.html

[ishoot308]

Here's a pic I just took of the open water in the broads. That's the Southeast tip of Welch Island at 9:00 o'clock, and yes, that is snow just sitting on the top skin of the water...

Dan

[Webbsatwinni]

Broads at 1:15 pm today.

[chachee52]

Just came back from a nice relaxing weekend on the lake at Lake Shore Park. I ask this question: what is the "official" definition of ice-in? Because when I got up there Friday the open water from Welch to Diamond was pretty obvious. By today at noon, it was skimmed over and snow was covering it. Now would I say "ice-in"? NO, because the skim could not hold a rock of any size, but there was ice over the water. Now if the wind stays down this week, then the cold weather that is predicted this week we should see the ice nicely locked in.

[tis]

It has historically always been around he 3rd week of Jan before the broads are iced over completely. I think this has been said before, but thought I would say it again.

[FLAG!]

I was surprised at the lack of bob houses I saw on wolfeboro bay over the weekend, however the guy at the bait shop told me people have been taking atv's out to barn door island and beyond. The snow we got will certainly invite the sleds out there.

[dippasan]

None of my business but I couldn't help but notice your user name of "Flag" and your avatar/photo is an antler.
There's an old movie called "The Yearling" where a young boy cares for an orphaned deer. If memory serves the boy names it Flag because of the white tail. Phenomenal movie.
Any connection?? Just wondering

Thanks

[FLAG!]

None of my business but I couldn't help but notice your user name of "Flag" and your avatar/photo is an antler.
There's an old movie called "The Yearling" where a young boy cares for an orphaned deer. If memory serves the boy names it Flag because of the white tail. Phenomenal movie.
Any connection?? Just wondering

Thanks

That's pretty funny. I was just thinking yesterday that my avatar is old and not relevant. I will have to check out that movie. Flag! is a reference to ice fishing which is one of my favorite winni activities. The antlers were in reference to my pursuit of whitetail. I know smoe hunters refer to a wiving whitetail in the woods as a flag. I saw one just this year as I settled into my tree stand on a very windy day. Straight away 100 yards out a white "flag" was waiving at me.

[dippasan]

Thanks for the reply. Didn't mean to get off the "Ice In" subject.
The Yearling starred Gregory Peck and Jane Wyman. Great movie for kids to watch. Full of life lessons, struggles, accountability and self reliance. In other words...full of things that seem to be forgotten by many today!!

Thanks

[FLAG!]

You're dead on accurate with that statement! Thanks.

[dowshill]

Black Cat seems to think the lake is frozen in, is that just that end of the lake? Are we making progress out in the Broads?

[Slickcraft]

Still some open water between Welch and Diamond. Not as much open now but still a good size strip.

A while ago, in jest, I suggested that there may be a new geothermal vent in that area. Now I am starting to wonder. It is real cold out there isn't it?

Well if there is still open water tomorrow morning.............

[pcmc]

Still some open water between Welch and Diamond. Not as much open now but still a good size strip.

A while ago, in jest, I suggested that there may be a new geothermal vent in that area. Now I am starting to wonder. It is real cold out there isn't it?

Well if there is still open water tomorrow morning.............

Great, now there will be a 'geothermal vent fee' for boaters.
:):):)

[secondcurve]

I sit miles away from the lake at this moment but I am making the bold prediction that ice in will be declared within 24 hours.

[NHWakesurfer]

If this cold weather hasn't locked it up yet it might just not ever happen this year. Slickcraft might be on to something. At this rate Lake Michigan might freeze over sooner. today has to be the day any updates from overnight. Now we just need some snow!

[Slickcraft]

We made a quick stop at the scenic overlook and from there both of us think that there is still a strip of open water between Welch and Diamond. If I am that way again today I'll bring the binoculars to see if I can see any wave action. I would have walked out to check but I was scheduled back home to cook breakfast sandwiches.:D

[SIKSUKR]

It must be the Geothermal Vortex.:laugh:

[pcmc]

Thanks for the reply. Didn't mean to get off the "Ice In" subject.
The Yearling starred Gregory Peck and Jane Wyman. Great movie for kids to watch. Full of life lessons, struggles, accountability and self reliance. In other words...full of things that seem to be forgotten by many today!!

Thanks

Sorry to veer in the wrong direction again!

Is this movie still available? I googled it and found reviews and a down load option, but I would like to have a hard copy such as a DVD or tape if that's even possible anymore.

[Blue Thunder]

Looking much closer to total coverage today. The pic is a little milky but still worth looking at.

BT

And yes, "hot springs" Sebago Lake to the right remains largely open....

[Slickcraft]

Went back with the binoculars, that is definitely a patch of water in my earlier post today. Light blue color and moving ripples on the surface.:(

But is not a large patch of water, maybe 1,500' long and 300' wide and ever so slowly shrinking.

All looks solid elsewhere, bob houses between FL 26 and north Welch.

Is 99 44/100 good enough? I don't know.

[upthesaukee]

If the Mount Washington UTV can make it to its 5 ports of call on the ice, then it is ice in. :rolleye2:;):D

[Slickcraft]

Answering my own question: If it is not safe to travel from the broads to Glendale passing between Welch and Diamond due to open water, then declaring ice-in would give a false sense of security. Like for a snow machine traveling at night.

[pko57]

Does anyone know if the lake is frozen in the Barber Pole area? Specifically between Tuftonboro Neck and Little Birch Island/Cow Island, near Orchard Cove...We are visiting from Florida this weekend, staying up near Mt. Washington, and wondering if it's worth the trip down to the lake to try and hike over to our place on Cow Island..............if it's not frozen, we probably won't drive down. We have tried the last two years unsuccessfully, always in late January. Maybe we are coming too early? Thanks for any info!

[dippasan]

Sorry to veer in the wrong direction again!

Is this movie still available? I googled it and found reviews and a down load option, but I would like to have a hard copy such as a DVD or tape if that's even possible anymore.

I'm not sure if it's available on DVD or not. I've seen several clips on You Tube and I think it can be seen in it's entirety on You Tube as well. Its one of those movies like "Captain's Courageous" or "Down to the Sea In Ships" that has great lessons for youth and a great message. You won't be disappointed! Enjoy.

[secondcurve]

Does anyone know if the lake is frozen in the Barber Pole area? Specifically between Tuftonboro Neck and Little Birch Island/Cow Island, near Orchard Cove...We are visiting from Florida this weekend, staying up near Mt. Washington, and wondering if it's worth the trip down to the lake to try and hike over to our place on Cow Island..............if it's not frozen, we probably won't drive down. We have tried the last two years unsuccessfully, always in late January. Maybe we are coming too early? Thanks for any info!

I'd be shocked if that area weren't frozen solid but I haven't been there so I can't say for sure. Can someone please answer this question for our newest member?

[pcmc]

I'm not sure if it's available on DVD or not. I've seen several clips on You Tube and I think it can be seen in it's entirety on You Tube as well. Its one of those movies like "Captain's Courageous" or "Down to the Sea In Ships" that has great lessons for youth and a great message. You won't be disappointed! Enjoy.

Thankyou, and I appreciate your additional suggestions.

[ishoot308]

Here's a couple more pics of the open water I took this morning. Definitely smaller than last time I saw it but still can't believe it has not frozen especially with the -1 degree temps last night!

Dan

[HellRaZoR004]

Let's see if this works. Not my photos (Emerson Aviation), just re-posting them. These images are from yesterday.

https://scontent-a-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1/1551727_634431409925998_1017533583_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1239380_634431426592663_1987671205_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1239361_634431449925994_1142852383_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t1/1517611_634431476592658_134295151_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/1618604_634431489925990_556802314_n.jpg

[Pine Island Guy]

Here's a couple more pics of the open water I took this morning. Definitely smaller than last time I saw it but still can't believe it has not frozen especially with the -1 degree temps last night!

Dan

with the below zero temps and very little wind, it is very strange that this particular spot hasn't at least skimmed over... I think it's time for forum member Diver1111 to take a trip down under and find out what's going on... Russian satellite with nuclear power that crashed in the lake? fissure from the famous New England fault line releasing magma? Remnants of the Naval work at Diamond Island? Underwater laboratory of Doctor Evil?

The good news is that there has been very solid ice from Y-Landing out to Pine Island for the past few weeks, so I'm happy! (although watch out for the usual pressure ridge between Bear and Pine)

brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr it's cold -PIG

[Slickcraft]

The open area is wider that it appears from shore, see 2nd pic in Emerson series posted by HellRaZoR004. Also the area of surrounding unsafe ice is quite extensive. Yikes!

[FLAG!]

This is nuts! How can that area be unfrozen with the consistently cold temps we've had? Has it been windy at night up there? All it should take is one calm night with these tempareatures to skim that over and it should thicken quickly.

[Island Girl]

Must be underwater serpents keeping the water moving. ;)

It does seem strange.

IG

[Island Girl]

Just in case you all missed the thread on the power out on Rattlesnake Island. That is the reason that Snake Eyes is not updating.

The power company guys will get out there when the ice is safe. :(

[Merrymeeting]

This is nuts! How can that area be unfrozen with the consistently cold temps we've had? Has it been windy at night up there? All it should take is one calm night with these tempareatures to skim that over and it should thicken quickly.

Refer to the recent post about the volume of water in the Winnipesaukee watershed. It takes a LONG time to change the temperature of billions of gallons of water even 1 degree. Also keep in mind that the water in the lower levels of the lake is 50ish degrees.

I assume that this area of the lake has more turbulence than other parts and the "warmer" water below is being brought up, keeping this area open despite the amazingly cold and long-durnation weather we're having.

Eventually it will freeze as the overall water body cools, and it will be the same, frustrating, seemingly-forever, time to go in the opposite direction in the Spring, as we all check the webcams multiple times a day for ice-out :)

(Keep in mind, Don's post for the ice-out contest will be here in a week!)

[dowshill]

We are interested in talking to the elect company about hitching up, we are 1 of 4 on the island who aren't connected. Could you send along the contact info for who you have been talking to, perhaps that would be a good time for them to check out our possibilities. Thanks.

[SIKSUKR]

This is bizarre.

[webmaster]

We are interested in talking to the elect company about hitching up, we are 1 of 4 on the island who aren't connected. Could you send along the contact info for who you have been talking to, perhaps that would be a good time for them to check out our possibilities. Thanks.If you want to discuss electric service please start another thread. This is the Ice-In thread.

[HellRaZoR004]

This was from 1hr ago:

https://scontent-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1490853_679837125401573_1952065050_o.jpg

[nightrider]

The area between Welch and Diamond contains the deepest point of the lake. It would make sense that this area would take the longest to turn over and cool before freezing.

[Merrymeeting]

The area between Welch and Diamond contains the deepest point of the lake. It would make sense that this area would take the longest to turn over and cool before freezing.

Same for much smaller Merrymeeting. 140+' depth area is the last to freeze (about a week ago)

[Sandy Island fan]

I realize that I may take some flack for this, but....
there appears to be enough ice on the rest of the lake for ice fishing. There's ice for the planes to land. Seems like a little open water in the Broads isn't hurting anyone, but may leave a place for the wind to grab an edge when it's time to move towards ice out.
IMO, it's a great balance between those that wanted ice, and those - like me - that are waiting for ice out.

[pcmc]

I realize that I may take some flack for this, but....
there appears to be enough ice on the rest of the lake for ice fishing. There's ice for the planes to land.

I took a ride to the lake on Friday to check on the cottage. When driving through Meredith, I couldn't believe how close some bob houses are to the open water near the town docks. I suppose if its safe its safe.


IMO, it's a great balance between those that wanted ice, and those - like me - that are waiting for ice out.
Hahaha fair enough.

EDIT: I want to point out A PART of my reply is posted WITHIN the QUOTED area of this post. "I took a ride to the lake......" I tried to reply to two separate parts of SIF's post.

[Sandy Island fan]

Thanks for clarifying, pcmc. Just in case our facilities director thought I had snatched the camp snow mobile to take a run out....

[ishoot308]

Here's a couple more pics just taken of the open water area Southeast of Welch Island.

While the area is shrinking it is still quite massive at approximately 1/2 mile in length x 1/4 mile wide.

In the second pic you can see some hardcore fisherman and their bob houses in the lower left.

I have spent the weekend on Welch island fishing and I am amazed that on the West and North side of the island I saw at least a dozen full size trucks driving all over the ice...the other side, open water!! :confused:

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Dan

[Hamiltony]

Has anyone been out on the ice between Cattle Landing and Bear Island? I'm planning to come up in a few weeks, and I'm hoping someone has been out to make sure the ice is safe. Also, what is the snow cover like on the island (debating renting snowshoes).

Thanks!

[MAXUM]

Has anyone been out on the ice between Cattle Landing and Bear Island? I'm planning to come up in a few weeks, and I'm hoping someone has been out to make sure the ice is safe. Also, what is the snow cover like on the island (debating renting snowshoes).

Thanks!

Yes I was out there last weekend, rode by cattle landing on my snow machine. Ice is plenty safe with about 2-3 inches of snow on the ice. Granted I didn't stop at cattle landing to see what the area around the dock looks like, but there are plenty of places to get on the ice around there.

The snow on the ground is mostly hard packed with a dusting or so of fresh powder on top. Easy enough to walk on without snowshoes.

Just be aware that parts of Bear Island are without power. I called the coop and they are aware of it but they told me they are waiting until they feel the ice is safe enough before sending any crews out.

[NYCtoLSP]

Just got word from the crew whose houses are out there near the open spot (they are my buddies from Lake Shore Park) that the ice is 20" thick out there. Can't wait to get on the lake this weekend for the annual girls' ice fishing trip.

[ishoot308]

Just got word from the crew whose houses are out there near the open spot (they are my buddies from Lake Shore Park) that the ice is 20" thick out there. Can't wait to get on the lake this weekend for the annual girls' ice fishing trip.

I can tell you with all certainty that ice there is NOT 20" thick...not even close! I drilled many holes around the entire area of welch island last week and on the western side where it has been frozen for many weeks there is only 12" (maybe more now with the cold nights we have had). Where those bob houses are near the open water 6 - 9 inches at best! While this is plenty safe, it is not 20" safe...

Dan

[Mink Islander]

12" last weekend all around Mink Island. A couple inches of slush ice from all the rain; the rest solid black ice. Agree it's probably grown an inch or two this week from the cold and little snow cover. Great conditions for ice fishing right now!

20" is hard to believe -- but these are fishmen we're talking about so exaggeration goes with the territory .... LOL.

[Lakegeezer]

Reading satellite pictures (http://ge.ssec.wisc.edu/modis-today/index.php?satellite=t1&product=true_color&date=2014_01_28_028&overlay_sector=false&overlay_state=true&overlay_coastline=true&sector=USA4&resolution=250m) can be as tough as reading medical X-rays, but today's shot, in very clear skys, indicates thinner ice in the broads and surrounding edges. Up in the northeast watershed of the lake, we had trusted reports of 18" of ice a few days ago, so some spots of 20" seems likely.

[FLAG!]

Are there any ice reports from the Wolfeboro area? I'm wondering how much ice there is OUTSIDE of Wolfeboro bay, particularly on the broads side of little barn door island. Typically if there's 10 inches there the rest of the Wolfeboro area is pretty secure.

[MDoug]

Yes I was out there last weekend, rode by cattle landing on my snow machine. Ice is plenty safe with about 2-3 inches of snow on the ice. Granted I didn't stop at cattle landing to see what the area around the dock looks like, but there are plenty of places to get on the ice around there.

The snow on the ground is mostly hard packed with a dusting or so of fresh powder on top. Easy enough to walk on without snowshoes.

Just be aware that parts of Bear Island are without power. I called the coop and they are aware of it but they told me they are waiting until they feel the ice is safe enough before sending any crews out.

How about power to west Bear, behind Shepard Island? We have an ice eater installed.

[NYCtoLSP]

Just got word from the crew whose houses are out there near the open spot (they are my buddies from Lake Shore Park) that the ice is 20" thick out there. Can't wait to get on the lake this weekend for the annual girls' ice fishing trip.

Ok, after some further inquiry, the 20" was in fact a fisherman's tale. However, there was a true measurement of 14" as of Saturday.

[MAXUM]

How about power to west Bear, behind Shepard Island? We have an ice eater installed.

I have no idea. If you're that concerned about it, PM me I'll be up there the weekend after next I can take a ride by and have a look and give you a call. In talking to the Coop, it sounds like they will be sending crews out soon, but they insist on having 12" or more ice before they will go. At least they know it's out, till I called they had no idea. If you look at the outage map they are now reporting one outage in Meredith, that's no doubt from my phone call. I doubt I will get out there this weekend.

I can tell you the light at the post office was on Saturday night and the Bear Cam is still updating so power appears to be good there, but I'm not that far from there and mine is out. Not sure how the power 'grid' is configured obviously it's segmented.

[codeman671]

I have no idea. If you're that concerned about it, PM me I'll be up there the weekend after next I can take a ride by and have a look and give you a call. In talking to the Coop, it sounds like they will be sending crews out soon, but they insist on having 12" or more ice before they will go. At least they know it's out, till I called they had no idea. If you look at the outage map they are now reporting one outage in Meredith, that's no doubt from my phone call. I doubt I will get out there this weekend.

I can tell you the light at the post office was on Saturday night and the Bear Cam is still updating so power appears to be good there, but I'm not that far from there and mine is out. Not sure how the power 'grid' is configured obviously it's segmented.

I can tell you that the end of line that feeds Mark and Mink is working fine.

[Blue Thunder]

Reading satellite pictures (http://ge.ssec.wisc.edu/modis-today/index.php?satellite=t1&product=true_color&date=2014_01_28_028&overlay_sector=false&overlay_state=true&overlay_coastline=true&sector=USA4&resolution=250m) can be as tough as reading medical X-rays, but today's shot, in very clear skys, indicates thinner ice in the broads and surrounding edges. Up in the northeast watershed of the lake, we had trusted reports of 18" of ice a few days ago, so some spots of 20" seems likely.
The view doesn't mean it's thinner at all. Clear black ice is the strongest ice there is. With all of the wind of late, the snow is blown off the areas that appear darker.....fear not.
BT

[ishoot308]

I am not in Gilford until tomorrow night and was hoping someone may have a visual report on the open water condition between Ellacoya and Welch...is there still open water???

Thanks!!

Dan

[DRH]

I am not in Gilford until tomorrow night and was hoping someone may have a visual report on the open water condition between Ellacoya and Welch...is there still open water???

Thanks!!

DanDan - as of yesterday afternoon the large area of open water was still there. I couldn't tell if it had shrunk or not during this cold weather spell we're having but if it has, it hasn't been by much. The open water area extends from Welch Island over toward Diamond Island.

[TJNed]

I am not in Gilford until tomorrow night and was hoping someone may have a visual report on the open water condition between Ellacoya and Welch...is there still open water???

Thanks!!

Dan

Ishoot308 - When you get to Gilford can you let me know how the conditions are in Paugus Bay? We usually get on there and ride to Meredith. I don't know if I should take the snow machine or the four wheeler. In past years we had a hard time getting around the bridge to GI. It seems the property owner blocked off the only way up and around the bridge so we have to go the long way around Governors Island.

[CAVU]

I have heard reports there are certain areas of the lake that weak ice in the winter due to large springs. I believe this is a spring fed lake. In fact I've been told that main outflow of the lake isn't Lakeport at all, its actually through the bottom of the lake. Apparently the bottom, through the bedrock, is very porous. While some openings feed the lake others drain it. A little fact I did not know until recently. I always thought it was Lakeport. My point to all of this, is that perhaps a few quakes in recent years opened a new large spring. I find a Geothermal vent to be unlikely. Everything I have read on it, suggests those are mainly confined to deep ocean floors or hot spring type lakes. I also think it were it were a Geothermal vent the open water would grow and be much larger. If I'm correct the open spot is slowly shrinking. I think a Geothermal vent would behave like the Aquatherms in the other thread. I think a large spring is more plausible. I would love to go down and take a peek. Anyway, just my two cents worth.

[ishoot308]

Ishoot308 - When you get to Gilford can you let me know how the conditions are in Paugus Bay? We usually get on there and ride to Meredith. I don't know if I should take the snow machine or the four wheeler. In past years we had a hard time getting around the bridge to GI. It seems the property owner blocked off the only way up and around the bridge so we have to go the long way around Governors Island.

As of last weekend....Sanders Bay is locked solid with plenty of ice for a couple weeks now. Measured 12" two weeks ago, probably close to 20" now (Please check for yourself however!).

Between Lockes and Governors 12"+ measured. Snowmobiles, trucks and ATVs all over the witches area.

West side of Welch all the way to Governors locked solid with a measured 12"+ of ice.

Welch island North to Braun bay locked solid with a measured 11"+ of ice. Trucks, snowmobiles, and atvs everywhere.

Great snow on the lake for the sleds!! Also nice for 4 wheelers!

Please note...I do not not and never will recommend driving a full size truck on the ice regardless of thickness. I only mention it because I saw them out there. Please do not believe anything I say and confirm ice thickness for yourself to be safe!

Thanks and have fun!!

Dan

[TJNed]

As of last weekend....Paugus Bay is locked solid with plenty of ice. (Please check for yourself however!) Same goes for the North side of Governors. Snowmobiles, trucks and ATVs all over the witches area.

West side of Welch all the way to Governors locked solid with a measured 12"+ of ice.

Welch island North to Braun bay locked solid with a measured 11"+ of ice.

Great snow on the lake for the sleds!!

Please do not believe anything I say and confirm ice thickness for yourself to be safe!

Thanks!!

Dan

Thanks Dan! Not to worry we always check out the conditions before venturing out. Will be there for Derby Weekend.

[salty dog]

As of last weekend....Sanders Bay is locked solid with plenty of ice for a couple weeks now. Measured 12" two weeks ago, probably close to 20" now (Please check for yourself however!).

Between Lockes and Governors 12"+ measured. Snowmobiles, trucks and ATVs all over the witches area.

West side of Welch all the way to Governors locked solid with a measured 12"+ of ice.

Welch island North to Braun bay locked solid with a measured 11"+ of ice. Trucks, snowmobiles, and atvs everywhere.

Great snow on the lake for the sleds!! Also nice for 4 wheelers!

Please note...I do not not and never will recommend driving a full size truck on the ice regardless of thickness. I only mention it because I saw them out there. Please do not believe anything I say and confirm ice thickness for yourself to be safe!

Thanks and have fun!!

Dan

Just curious. What is the recommenced ice thickness (if any) before a larger vehicle/4x4 should venture out on the lake? Never done that and don't know if I would but I think I'd be nervous driving out with my Expedition unless there were other heavy vehicles on the ice also.

Chris

[webmaster]

Just curious. What is the recommenced ice thickness (if any) before a larger vehicle/4x4 should venture out on the lake?Here's a few charts I found online:

[ishoot308]

Just curious. What is the recommenced ice thickness (if any) before a larger vehicle/4x4 should venture out on the lake? Never done that and don't know if I would but I think I'd be nervous driving out with my Expedition unless there were other heavy vehicles on the ice also.

Chris

Well...here is what the Army Corp of Engineers says...

"The following table of safe loads is valid ONLY for ice that is clear and sound, with no flowing water underneath. it is not reliable for stationary loads."

1-3/4" One person on skies
2" One person on foot or skates
3" One snowmobile
3" A group of people walking single file
7" A single passenger automobile
8" A 2-1/2 ton truck
9" A 3-1/2 ton truck
10" A 7 to 8 ton truck

In my opinion anyone who would drive an 8 ton truck on 10" of ice is a moron!

[salty dog]

Well...here is what the Army Corp of Engineers says...

"The following table of safe loads is valid ONLY for ice that is clear and sound, with no flowing water underneath. it is not reliable for stationary loads."

1-3/4" One person on skies
2" One person on foot or skates
3" One snowmobile
3" A group of people walking single file
7" A single passenger automobile
8" A 2-1/2 ton truck
9" A 3-1/2 ton truck
10" A 7 to 8 ton truck

In my opinion anyone who would drive an 8 ton truck on 10" of ice is a moron!
Thanks for the info. 8 tons, eh? Think I'll watch from shore!

[upthesaukee]

...the Welch Island to Diamond Island hot tub is still there, although my wife thought it was a little smaller today than Sunday.

[FLAG!]

Call me a dumb, but I've driven several trucks on the ice on Winni for many years. I've also not driven a truck on the ice many years. Understanding what kind of ice you have is key. Black ice is obviously the safest. Here are some guidelines I use.
1) what other vehicles have been out on the ice. I am never the first truck on the ice
2) drill holes along the path to my destination and record ice quality and thickness.
3) recent weather. Have there been recent thaws?

I wouldn't drive a truck on the ice with fewer than 12" solid ice. Recent years have not been good. I haven't had a truck on the ice since 2006 or 2007 I think.

When I was younger and more foolish I was careless and lucky. I probably drove on 10 inches of ice. In fact one at really dumb moment I drove onto the ice at Brewster Beach in Wolfeboro in my brother's Ford Bronco (sure as hell wasn't taking MY truck out there ;) ), I drove straight across the broads to Meredith. At one point I hit a pressure ridge that I didn't even SEE until I was about 4 feet from it (everything was covered in snow). Fortunately the truck had a good size rancho suspension/lift kit and big tires on it. That truck was AIRBORN. When I arrived in Meredith Bay I stopped about 100 yards from a group of ice fishermen. I walked over and asked where a good place to get off the lake was. They said "probably where you came on". I replied "I came on in Wolfeboro". They looked at me wide eyed and said "Then I guess you can get off wherever you damn please!"

I'm older and wiser now, I think. I snowmobile to where I ice fish. Typically if I take a truck out it;s after a day or two of becoming very familiar with the ice conditions.

[Slickcraft]

...the Welch Island to Diamond Island hot tub is still there, although my wife thought it was a little smaller today than Sunday.

Agree that it is slightly smaller today but still there. It was down to about 6 deg overnight with an early morning period of almost calm.

Last year there was a similar patch of open water south of Welch but it was not anywhere near as cold. However I don't recall this patch of open water in years prior to that when it was this cold.

Could Sauron have actually rekindled ancient fires in an attempt to reforge the ring? If so, even Ice Nine might be thwarted.

[TJNed]

Call me a dumb, but I've driven several trucks on the ice on Winni for many years. I've also not driven a truck on the ice many years. Understanding what kind of ice you have is key. Black ice is obviously the safest. Here are some guidelines I use.
1) what other vehicles have been out on the ice. I am never the first truck on the ice
2) drill holes along the path to my destination and record ice quality and thickness.
3) recent weather. Have there been recent thaws?

I wouldn't drive a truck on the ice with fewer than 12" solid ice. Recent years have not been good. I haven't had a truck on the ice since 2006 or 2007 I think.

When I was younger and more foolish I was careless and lucky. I probably drove on 10 inches of ice. In fact one at really dumb moment I drove onto the ice at Brewster Beach in Wolfeboro in my brother's Ford Bronco (sure as hell wasn't taking MY truck out there ;) ), I drove straight across the broads to Meredith. At one point I hit a pressure ridge that I didn't even SEE until I was about 4 feet from it (everything was covered in snow). Fortunately the truck had a good size rancho suspension/lift kit and big tires on it. That truck was AIRBORN. When I arrived in Meredith Bay I stopped about 100 yards from a group of ice fishermen. I walked over and asked where a good place to get off the lake was. They said "probably where you came on". I replied "I came on in Wolfeboro". They looked at me wide eyed and said "Then I guess you can get off wherever you damn please!"

I'm older and wiser now, I think. I snowmobile to where I ice fish. Typically if I take a truck out it;s after a day or two of becoming very familiar with the ice conditions.

Almost sounds like a little alcohol was involved. :rolleye2:

[rdant]

Here's a few charts I found online:

None of the charts show airplanes! :liplick:

I put my little Cessna 172 between the BMW and the Truck.

[Slickcraft]

On the news tonight mention was made of F&G warnings about some unsafe areas of the lake specifically noting an area near Welch Island. They also briefly showed an aerial photo that looked like the 2nd photo in post #183 which they attributed to the Civil Air Patrol.

They did note that many areas of the lake are safe with about a foot of ice.

[Winnisquamguy]

On the news tonight mention was made of F&G warnings about some unsafe areas of the lake specifically noting an area near Welch Island. They also briefly showed an aerial photo that looked like the 2nd photo in post #183 which they attributed to the Civil Air Patrol.

They did note that many areas of the lake are safe with about a foot of ice.Here is the full article that Slickcraft is talking about.

CONCORD, N.H. -- New Hampshire Fish and Game Department officials warn that this winter's uneven temperatures and high winds have affected ice formation, particularly on the state's larger lakes. Fish and Game is urging those heading out onto the ice to exercise caution as they do so. A large number of anglers are expected to head out onto the state's lakes and ponds this weekend to participate in the Meredith Rotary Ice Fishing Derby (February 8-9, 2014).
A recent aerial survey of Lake Winnipesaukee by the N.H. Civil Air Patrol revealed treacherous ice conditions on some parts of the big lake, including an area of open water near Welch Island. Note the aerial photo at right of Lake Winnipesaukee ice conditions, taken on January 25, 2014.
"Caution is in order for those going out onto the ice, especially on the large lakes," said Fish and Game Lt. James Goss. "Don't let the cold temperatures fool you – some areas that have traditionally been safe for ice anglers and other outdoor recreationists are not safe this year. We are urging people to check the ice thickness for yourself before you go out onto any frozen waterbody."
Because of the unpredictable ice conditions, it is not advisable to drive vehicles onto the ice, Goss said. Those on foot should carefully assess ice safety before venturing out by using an ice chisel or auger to determine ice thickness and condition. Continue to do this as you get further out on to the ice, because the thickness of the ice will not be uniform all over the waterbody.
Fisheries Biologist Don Miller notes, "Even though the winter of 2013-2014 has been cold so far, ice conditions on Lake Winnipesaukee are highly variable. One area of note where extreme caution should be exercised extends from Lakeshore Park in Gilford, east to Welch Island and across to Long Island, Moultonborough. The area extends south to Diamond and Rattlesnake islands and west to the Gilford shore line. This includes the vicinity commonly referred to as "the Broads." While caution should be exercised on the ice at all times, this area of Winnipesauke has seen very poor ice conditions consistently over the past few years. Extreme caution should be used in this area."
As shown in the aerial photo, even travel along the shore line south of Lakeshore Park is not recommended.
Though all ice is potentially dangerous, the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory in Hanover, N.H., offers a "rule of thumb" on ice thickness: There should be a minimum of six inches of hard ice before individual foot travel, and eight to ten inches of hard ice for snow machine or All-Terrain Vehicle travel.
Keep in mind that thick ice does not always mean safe ice. It is possible for ice to be thick, but not strong, because of varying weather conditions. Weak ice is formed when warming trends break down ice, then the slushy surface re-freezes. Be especially careful of areas with current, such as inlets, outlets and spring holes, where the ice can be dangerously thin.

Tips for staying safe on the ice include:


Stay off the ice along the shoreline if it is cracked or squishy. Don’t go on the ice during thaws.
Watch out for thin, clear or honeycombed ice. Dark snow and ice may also indicate weak spots.
Small bodies of water tend to freeze thicker. Rivers and lakes are more prone to wind, currents and wave action that weaken ice.
Don’t gather in large groups or drive large vehicles onto the ice.
If you do break through the ice, don’t panic. Move or swim back to where you fell in, where you
know the ice was solid. Lay both arms on the unbroken ice and kick hard. This will help lift your body onto the ice. A set of ice picks can help you pull yourself out if you do fall through the ice; wear them around your neck or put them in an easily accessible pocket. Once out of the water, roll away from the hole until you reach solid ice.

Ice safety is also very important for snowmobilers. Don't assume a trail is safe just because it exists; ask about trail conditions at local snowmobile clubs or sporting goods shops before you go.
http://www.wildnh.com/Newsroom/2014/Q1/ice_safety_013014.html

[ishoot308]

The open water area between Welch and lake Shore Park looked like just a sliver this morning...a crack in the ice!

We have some warmer weather coming in for the next three days so I doubt we will see this area freeze until next week when the colder weather returns...

Dan

[Descant]

On the radio (Jan. 31) there was talk about the Pond Hockey Tournament. They mentioned that there was a foot of ice in Meredith Bay, but cautioned that ice was thin elsewhere and that there was open water off Welch Island. Looks like hundreds of people out for the tournament at any given time.

Where are there daily overhead pictures? If you snowmobile out to the islands, how can you tell what is safe?

[BoulderBronco]

If you snowmobile out to the islands, how can you tell what is safe?
Experience and common sense. Common sense is a given. But knowing the lake and how it works is just as important. With that said it seems most of the lake is solid and safe, with the exception of by Welch/Diamond. But always use caution!

[phoenix]

always like this time of year when ice in and ice out discussions are happening at same time:)

[Timma]

Tentatively plannning on trekking across the Lake from Glendale to Welch in a couple of weeks with friends, assuming the ice is safe.

Any thoughts on whether than open water patch would be an issue (assuming it's still there)? We'd be going to the NW side of Welch so I'm thinking we can stay safely away from it. Maybe not though?

[ishoot308]

Tentatively plannning on trekking across the Lake from Glendale to Welch in a couple of weeks with friends, assuming the ice is safe.

Any thoughts on whether than open water patch would be an issue (assuming it's still there)? We'd be going to the NW side of Welch so I'm thinking we can stay safely away from it. Maybe not though?

You are all set! Plenty of ice on that side 14+" (please check for yourself). Not a single pressure ridge as of last weekend, flat as a pancake!

The open water / unsafe area is on the Southeast side facing Ellacoya just stay away from that area.

Enjoy your trek, I will be out there all weekend!

Dan

[Slickcraft]

Tentatively plannning on trekking across the Lake from Glendale to Welch in a couple of weeks with friends, assuming the ice is safe.

Any thoughts on whether than open water patch would be an issue (assuming it's still there)? We'd be going to the NW side of Welch so I'm thinking we can stay safely away from it. Maybe not though?

We walked over to NW Welch last Friday and as Dan said the ice is flat and firm. The last 1,000 feet of so was all snow covered as it blew off the center and settled near the island. However we were glad we had the microspikes on for most of the walk, lots of glare ice. That will of course all change with the forecast storms.

[FLAG!]

We ice fished the Wolfeboro area this past weekend. We had 13 inches of ice however a good 4 to 6 of that was grey ice. THough there were trucks in Wolfeboro Bay and South Wolfeboro Bay, I decided to stick to snowmobile access due to the lack of 10+ inches of black ice. I did see someone in a small passenger car drive from Wolf bay out to where we were. He stopped after passing us, backed up, turned around and went back towards wolfeboro Bay. I later talked to a Fish & Game Officer who told me he pulled him over as he was driving like an idiot and too fast within 150' of ice fishermen. He also chased down some sledders that came too close to our guys at high speed. I think he enjoys the chase. He didn't cite them, just verbal warning.

[CAVU]

Is the open water officially iced over?

[ishoot308]

Is the open water officially iced over?

Not as of this past Monday it certainly wasn't... I honestly do not think it will freeze over this year. Something has changed drastically in that area in the past couple years and not sure what it is. It is now an area that just will not freeze over... Plenty of ice everywhere else though!

[CAVU]

Not as of this past Monday it certainly wasn't... I honestly do not think it will freeze over this year. Something has changed drastically in that area in the past couple years and not sure what it is. It is now an area that just will not freeze over... Plenty of ice everywhere else though!

Interesting, my money is on some time of new spring that was opened during an earthquake. Definitely thick elsewhere, Where I live up in Moultonborough bay, a guy drilled a hole for me and nearly used whole auger before we broke through.. You could drive a tank over it..

[Blue Thunder]

This won't matter to most of you...maybe to Dave R and IG, but Sebago Lake has frozen completely for the first time since 2010. Numerous pressure ridges have formed in the areas that have been frozen for several weeks. Lots of good sledding but folks are being warned to stay away from the NW side of the lake near East Sebago and Naples which was the last area to freeze.

BT

[ishoot308]

As of this morning the "hot tub" open water area between Welch and Lakeshore Park looked completely frozen over to me. While I am certain whatever ice that has formed there is extremely thin and covered with snow, I could not see any gray areas or water cracks whatsoever.

In my opinion, "ice in" should be declared today...

Dan

[Slickcraft]

We skied at Gunstock yesterday and this morning. Looking from the summit yesterday we could see a patch of open water a little north of Diamond. It had shrunk a lot but still some blue. Today it looked like it all had skimmed over during the night. No open water in sight except for near docks with circulation pumps. I agree with Dan as to ice-in.

[webmaster]

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