Be prepared as winter returns to mountains

The unusually warm weather in Scottish mountains during the past few weeks looks like it has finally come to an end.

The absence of snow caused many mountain-goers to ditch their usual winter attire for something more appealing to summer weather.

However, the forecast looks to be changing and mountaineering experts are warning people to make sure they prepare for colder temperatures.

This weekend Scotland’s mountain weather will be strongly influenced by a cold front.

Snow is expected to fall and temperatures could drop below freezing, especially on higher ground.

Mountaineering Scotland health and safety adviser Heather Morning said: ‘It’s important to consider our mindset.

‘Over the past two weeks it very much felt like winter was behind us, so it would be all too easy to get caught out in the wrong place with the wrong kit.’

Ms Morning said it is important for people to be aware of the weather conditions at all times and to be prepared if you are on the hills.

She added: ‘Combine fresh snow cover with high winds and poor visibility and it’s time to switch on that #Thinkwinter awareness again and reinstate those crampons and ice axes essential for safe travel in the winter mountains.’

Check out the latest information on snow conditions at the sportscotland Avalanche Information Service webpage and combine that information with the latest mountain-specific weather forecast.

Go to www.sais.gov.uk. Mountain weather forecasts can be found at www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/ mountain-forecasts and at www.mwis. org.uk