Mountain skills · weather

Mountain Weather Basics

A quick-reference of weather rules of thumb for hill walkers — temperature, wind, wind chill, cloud, the signs it's turning and what to check before you set off.

Guidance, not a forecast. Always check the day's mountain forecast (e.g. MWIS or the Met Office Mountain forecast) before you head out.
Mountain Weather BasicsRules of thumbTemperatureDrops about 1°C for every 100 m you climb — nearer0.6°C in cloud or rain.WindFar stronger on tops and ridges. Near 40 mphwalking is hard; gusts can floor you.Wind chillWind and wet strip body heat fast — dress for thefeels-like, not the air temperature.Cloud & visibilityIf the cloud base is below your route you'll be incloud — expect a whiteout.Signs it's turningLowering, thickening cloud, rising wind, fallingpressure, a ring round the sun.Before you goCheck a mountain forecast (MWIS, Met Office). Notewind, cloud base and rain.Mountain CardsFor hill walkers

Use of this tool is offered on the condition of a donation to Severn Area Rescue Association.