Flooding and gale force winds, and a forecast of sleet and snow on Scotland’s highest mountains, has prompted a mountaineering expert to warn hillwalkers to be prepared and wrap up warm.
The top of the ‘Goat Track’, affected by recent storms
Temporary Mountain Safety Adviser with the MCofS, David ‘Monty’ Monteith advised: “Sleet has been forecast for the higher hills in the coming week, and we’ve just seen torrential rain which swept away two bridges in the Cairngorms and made many streams impassable for a period, as well as causing landslips and damage to footpaths.
“Wind and rain are the classic combination for bringing on hypothermia. Once someone’s clothes are wet through the wind can have a tremendous chilling effect, even though the air temperature is not that low in itself. It may still be August but hypothermia is a real risk if people are not properly prepared.”
Hypothermia occurs when a person’s body temperature drops below 35°C (95°F), normal body temperature being around 37°C (98.6°F). Hypothermia can quickly become life threatening and should be treated as a medical emergency.
Monty added: “Walkers should also consider a simpler, low level route option or plan a viable escape route if they are aiming to go high. The provision of a bivouac bag, group shelter and some modern lightweight insulating clothing can be a lifesaver if things do go wrong.
“The medium-term weather forecast is for some respite in the wet and cold weather but this will only be temporary. The nights are now drawing in and next month sees the autumnal equinox, after which the number of daylight hours shrinks noticeably. Make sure you don’t shrink from responsible preparations for your mountain journeys.”