Hiking In Fog, Snow And Sub-zero Temperatures

The weather in high mountain ranges tend to be unpredictable at times. Snow, fog and extreme cold not only occurs in the winter but in summer as well.

Hikers should be well prepared for the cold and wet conditions that they might encounter at least with their hiking and camping gear. Hypothermia is a major threat so take great care to safeguard against it.

Fog

Fog usually occurs in unsettled weather such as in the high mountains, on moorland, and along some coastlines. A bank of fog can come very quickly and there's no way to outrun it.

Fog dangerously obscures the landscape so hikers have problems with navigation. Landmarks can become impossible to spot which almost renders your map and compass useless. A GPS receiver would be very useful at this time to locate your exact position.

It is cold, wet and often windy inside a bank of fog. When you see a bank of fog coming your way, be sure to put on another layer of clothing and remember your raincoat and waterproof pants.

Add more layers if you need to stop more frequently to navigate. Stay in close contact if you are in a group to ensure no one gets lost. Use a whistle to grab attention.

Unexpected Snowfall

Snowstorms can occur anytime in the world's highest mountain ranges, even in summer. The snowfall may be small but at times it lasts for prolonged periods, covering your trail.

You may be slowed down a bit but summer snow melts fast so you have time to catch up. However, summer trails are not designed with snow in mind. Even a thin layer of snow makes crossing rocky, uneven terrain hazardous. A walking stick or trekking pole will help you keep your balance.

Finding your way can be difficult when the trail is covered with snow. You'll have better luck navigating to the next visible destination rather than trying to follow a trail buried under snow.

Sub-Zero Temperatures

Sudden and extreme cold is always a possibility in mountain ranges. A dangerous situation arises in summer when cold weather is likely to be accompanied by rain. This increases the risk of hypothermia.

It is important to stay dry. If you do get wet, it is vital that you warm up very quickly.

Avalanches

In winter or late spring, avalanches are most likely to occur. They are most common on the sun facing side of the slope and on the leeward side of a ridge.

Avalanches follow the same path repeatedly, so slopes with sheared off trees are a sure sign of danger and so is a clear chute below a cornice.

Most avalanches occur on slopes that are at an angle of 30 - 45 degrees. They're likely to occur in the 24 hours after a heavy snowfall.

This risk of avalanches increases as the temperature rises during the day so cross avalanche slopes in the early morning. Always check if the snow is solid enough and be careful where you step.

If you see an avalanche coming, run as fast as possible downhill away from it. If you're trapped under the snow, move your hands in front of your face to clear an air hole. Your walking stick of trekking pole can be used as a beacon so rescuers can find you.