Fresh snow is on the way for the Welsh and Scottish mountains as temperatures cool over the next two days.
Glencoe’s avalanche risk is forecast to rise to category three tomorrow as strong south-easterly winds build up unstable windslab on north- and north-west-facing lee slopes.
A winter hillwalker tackles blizzard conditions
Similar conditions are expected in the northern and southern Cairngorms. Creag Meagaidh and Lochaber look slightly better prospects with category two (moderate) conditions. The Scottish Avalanche Information Service says that climbing potential is still sparse. Although the freezing level is dropping down the mountains, sheep were today observed happily grazing at 750m. As their Lochaber blog points out: “Sheep observed high up mountains generally indicates poor winter climbing conditions.”
Wind-chill of -23C is forecast for the Highlands tomorrow. Gusts of up to 60mph will produce blizzard conditions on the tops.
Elsewhere, Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Team spokesman Chris Lloyd is warning hillwalkers in Snowdonia to be prepared if they venture on to the region’s mountains. He told the Daily Post newspaper: “The weather can change in an instant on the hills and walkers should be well prepared for any conditions at any time.
“But snow and ice bring extra hazards and people should consider whether or not they have the proper experience to carry out their walk or climb before venturing out.”
The icy blast is destined to be short-lived, according to the Met Office, with milder weather returning by Saturday. So snow lovers should make the most of it.
Meteorological service WeatherAction has gained much publicity with claims of a drop in central England to -17C and a long-range forecast that puts January’s average temperature around freezing point. However, the Met Office, the official UK government forecasting service, takes issue with this view.
Its long-range forecast for the remaining winter in the UK is for temperatures still above average, though we should expect colder weather than last year.
