Scotland's mountains are prone to avalanche during winter

A pilot avalanche report service will run for a sixth area in the Scottish Highlands this winter.

The restricted reporting of conditions in Torridon in north-West Scotland will augment the usual service for five other areas in the coming season.

sportscotland Avalanche Information Service daily reports for the southern and northern Cairngorms, Lochaber, Creag Meagaidh and Glencoe will start on Thursday 12 December.

The Torridon area will be covered from Christmas Eve to 29 December; 1 to 5 January; 10 to 12 January; 31 January to 2 February and the period between Valentine’s Day and 22 February.

SAIS said: “Avalanche hazard considerations should always be part of any winter hillgoers’ daily plans and we would recommend that climbers, walkers and off-piste skiers currently venturing into the hills continue to note snow and weather conditions in respect of any potential avalanche hazard.

“Be prepared to modify your plans accordingly.”

The avalanche reports, which include forecasts for the following day’s hazard level, will appear on the SAIS website.