Get to know British weather on the Hills
Hill walking in the UK presents unique challenges due to the country’s varied and often unpredictable weather. Hill walkers should be aware of all the elements you may come across.
The UK's weather can change suddenly, especially in mountainous areas. Clear skies can quickly give way to rain, mist, or even snow, regardless of the season.
Always check the weather forecast before starting, but be ready for it to change. Carry appropriate gear such as waterproofs and layers. The Met office has specific mountain and summit weather forecasts that can be used Mountain weather forecast - Met Office. The Mountain Weather information Service is also useful for more detailed forecasts Home Page (mwis.org.uk).
Understanding where to get good weather information is the starting point, what we do and we deal with this information is the next steps.
Wind
Dealing with winds can be one of the most dangerous aspects of British Weather, understanding how the wind can affect your day is key to staying safe.
High Winds:
Strong winds, particularly on exposed ridges, can make walking difficult or even dangerous. In extreme cases, walkers can be blown off balance.
Wind Chill:
Even moderate winds can drastically lower the temperature you feel, known as the "wind chill factor," increasing the risk of hypothermia.
Safety Tips:
It's important to think of alternative plans if the winds are looking strong, think about how the wind will affect you in different places during your route and consider what alternatives there might be.
Wind effect on you: See Mountaineering Scotland's table
Wind speeds generally get stronger with height, however local topography can also affect this.
Wind Speed in the Mountains on BMC TV
Rain
Heavy rainfall in the UK is something we are very familiar with, having the right equipment is key to keeping yourself safe during rainfall, its equally important to think how the rain will affect your equipment:
- Is your rucksack waterproof or do you have a waterproof cover?
- Will it affect your spare layers?
- Do you have any electrical equipment it might affect (Phone, head torch, GPS)?
- If you are camping out over multiple nights the effects on your kit are more important, take considerations as to how you waterproof your equipment.
The immediate dangers of heavy rain will be mostly its effects on the landscape, heavy rain bulges river and makes some small streams impassable. Heading up stream and finding safe crossing points can make your day longer, cause other issues like benighting, becoming fatigued, and exposed to the weather for long periods.
Fog and Mist
Misty weather can form quickly and catch experienced hill walkers out, it might not immediately cause an issue but it will lengthen your day, increase the likelihood of benighting and becoming lost.
Low Visibility: Hill fog, which can form quickly at higher altitudes, significantly reduces visibility. This can make navigation difficult, even for experienced walkers.
Navigation: Always carry a map, compass, and GPS if possible. Know how to use them, as paths and landmarks can disappear in thick fog.
Cold and Snow
Being prepared for changing conditions in the UK is critical, depending on the humidity temperatures can drop between 1-2oC for every 100m of height gained. With added windy chill, the sunny day at the foot of the mountains can turn quickly into a dangerously cold experience, many walkers have been caught out by not observing the changing conditions of the upper mountains.
Hypothermia Risk: Prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions can lead to hypothermia. Layered clothing, hats, and gloves are crucial. If one of your party starts to Stumble, Mumble or Fumble they may be starting to experience symptoms of hypothermia.
Snow and Ice: In winter, snow and ice make routes hazardous. Ice axes and crampons may be necessary for high-level routes.
Winter Skills: Conditions and weather
Heat and Sun
Although rare, heatwaves can occur in the UK, dehydration and heat exhaustion are real risks. In most of our upland areas there is limited shelter so sun protection such as sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat it incredibly important, carrying enough water for the whole day, as well as salts and sugars to help with hydration.
Changing conditions will offer a challenge and for the properly equipped and skilled individuals can offer a great day out, but remember, you can always turn back, the mountains will be there when you return.
The Layering System
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