I was hoping someone else would respond by now. I hope the above sources have led you to the information you need!

If the Whites will be your very first backpacking trip, I have some doubt that rugged mountains featuring the worst weather in the country (although high altitudes in the Rockies, with which I'm very familiar, come really close) is a good place for a first-timer. Maybe a few short trips at lower altitude closer to home, and some practice staying dry in bad weather? If you've already done these preliminary steps, though, enjoy your trip, but be careful out there!