Snow and Avalanche Report
Issued at 17.00 hrs Thursday 14/12/2000
Snow showers have affected most Highland ranges overnight 
and today, although Glencoe and Lochaber had dry conditions 
for most of the day.  In the Cairngorms, precipitation has been 
persistent and sometimes heavy.  In Lochaber, new snow fell 
to around 650 metres, while in the North Cairngorms, the limit 
of new snow was around 800 metres.  Temperatures fell in all 
areas around dusk, with snow falling down to 350 metres in 
places.  Winds during the period have been from NW to NNE, 
resulting in fresh accumulations on mainly Southerly aspects.  
Above 900 metres, mainly in the Cairngorms, Creag 
Meagaidh, Lochaber and higher  locations in Glencoe, the 
underlying old snowpack is hard and icy. This exists mainly in 
corries and gullies on Northerly aspects.  New slab 
accumulations are now to be found, particularly below plateau 
rims and gully heads on slopes of many aspects above 950 
metres.  The avalanche hazard in areas of greatest build-up is 
Considerable (Category 3). The Cairngorms and Lochaber 
have most snow, but recent falls have also affected Ross-shire 
and Skye.  

Avalanche Hazard Outlook Friday 15/12/2000
Overnight snow showers on very strong Westerlies, giving 
moderate to heavy falls, will affect most Highland ranges, but 
particularly the Cairngorms.  With colder temperatures and 
winds becoming Northerly during the day, snow will fall at all 
levels.  Conditions will slowly ease during the day, leaving 
showers over the NW Highlands and the Cairngorms by 
evening.  Further slab accumulation will take place on mainly 
NE through to S aspects, with gully heads, plateau rims and 
crag aprons above 900 metres being particularly affected.  In 
areas of greatest build-up and particularly where old snow-ice 
underlies, avalanches are likely.  The avalanche hazard will be 
Considerable (Category 3).
Note: This report will be reviewed on Friday 15/12/2000. 
Detailed daily Reports for 5 areas will commence on 
20/12/2000.




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