Avalanche Safety in the Scottish hills this winter

Wednesday 12th February 2025, 3:23pm

For many of us, winter is when Scotland's hills and mountains truly come into their own. But with the beautiful scenery comes a serious environment that demands respect and preparation.

Winter adventures require equipment and skills beyond those needed for summer hill walking or climbing. That’s why it’s essential for all mountaineers, skiers, and winter walkers to make use of the Scottish Avalanche Information Service (SAIS) and follow the 'Be Avalanche Aware' (BAA) guidelines.

What is SAIS?

The Scottish Avalanche Information Service provides daily avalanche forecasts throughout the winter season for Scotland’s most popular mountain areas: Creag Meagaidh, Glencoe, Lochaber, Northern Cairngorms, Southern Cairngorms, and Torridon. Checking these forecasts helps you understand snow stability, avalanche risks, and weather conditions in the areas you plan to explore.

Updated daily, the SAIS reports give detailed information about:

  • Current avalanche hazard levels (rated on a five-point scale from Low to Very High)
  • Snow distribution and stability
  • Recent avalanche activity
  • Key considerations for safe travel

You can access SAIS reports on their website or download the ‘Be Avalanche Aware’ app.

Why 'Be Avalanche Aware'?

Avalanches are a complex hazard, and understanding how to navigate winter terrain safely requires more than just checking the forecast.

Alongside the Snow and Avalanche Foundation of Scotland (SAFOS), SAIS manage the BAA initiative, a framework that outlines the decision-making process and fundamental considerations for assessing avalanche hazard. Remember to:

  1. Plan ahead: Use SAIS forecasts and weather reports to choose a route that avoids avalanche-prone areas.
  2. Monitor conditions: Keep an eye on changing snow and weather conditions throughout your hike.
  3. Assess the terrain: Recognise slopes and areas where avalanches are most likely to occur.
  4. Adapt your plan: Stay flexible and be prepared to change your route if conditions demand it.

By following BAA principles, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions and reduce your risk while exploring Scotland’s mountains this winter.

Top Tips for Avalanche Safety 

  • Check the SAIS report daily: Conditions can change rapidly in the hills.
  • Carry essential gear: A transceiver, shovel, and probe are lifesaving tools if you’re traveling in avalanche-prone terrain. Ensure you know how to use them.
  • Travel with a group: There’s safety in numbers, and group members can assist in an emergency.
  • Learn and practice: Consider taking an avalanche awareness course to boost your knowledge and skills.

Book on to our One-Day Avalanche Awareness Course to increase your knowledge of snow conditions and avalanche risk, to learn which areas to avoid and to improve your understanding of reports and forecasts.

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