04/04/2026
As approaches West Perthshire and the northern Loch Lomond & Trossachs this Easter weekend, we ask everyone to prioritise proper planning and honest decision-making. While it might just feel a bit "dreich" at low level, the conditions across the higher, remote ground in our area will be a different world entirely.
The Met Office has issued warnings for blizzard conditions and gusts potentially reaching 80–90mph on exposed ridges. In these conditions, even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts can find themselves in serious trouble.
Before you leave the house:
🌪️ Check the Weather Forecast: Do not rely on standard weather apps. Consult the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) for the Southern Highlands. It provides specific details on cloud base, wind speeds at summit level, and the "effect of wind on you," which is vital for Storm Dave.
🧗 Adapt for Individual Capability:
Ensure your plans are tailored to the physical limits and technical experience of every person in your group.
🗺️ Navigation Calculations: Battling high winds and deep snow significantly increases exhaustion and slows your pace. You must factor this into your timing and navigation calculations—everything takes much longer in a storm, and you may find you cover only half your usual distance.
📝 Leave a Note:
Ensure someone at home knows your exact route and your "expected back" time.
Crucial Decision-Making on the Hill:
🤔 🤔 Think Twice: If the weather looks daunting or the clouds are down before you even start, think twice. There is no shame in choosing a low-level walk or heading to the café instead.
🗻 The Hills Will Always Be There: Don't let "summit fever" or a long-planned Easter trip cloud your judgement. The mountains aren't going anywhere—make sure you're around to enjoy them when the weather breaks.
💨 The U-Turn is a Success: Reaching safety because you made a smart call to abandon a route is a mark of experience, not a failure. If the wind is making you stumble or visibility is dropping, turn back.
If you are heading out, remember:
❄️ Full Winter Conditions: Expect heavy snow, drifting, and severe wind chill on higher ground.
💨 90mph Gusts: Winds this strong can blow you off your feet. Stick to sheltered, low-level paths.
📉 Kit Check: Winter essentials like crampons and an ice axe are still required for the high ground. Plenty warm food and drink.
🔦 Torches: Carry a torch and a spare one with additional battery power. This is our friend when trying to find you at night.
🗺️ Navigation: Don’t rely on your phone—cold drains batteries.Carry a physical map and compass.
🐶 Look after four legged friends: Exposing them to severe weather can resault in them being injured or die.
🆘 In an emergency in the outdoors: Dial 999, ask for the POLICE, then ask for MOUNTAIN RESCUE.
🛖 Please have the ability to shelter and stay warm, both you and your hill party as it will take longer for us to get their.
