Avalanche Reports Back

The Scottish Avalanche Information Service forecasts are back plus the reports have been revamped with some neat graphics giving a clear idea of hazard levels and which slopes are affected.


The new report format was based on a group analysis of the existing text format and a look at how other international bodies present their information. The result is a new visual 'hazard rose' using colours already established by the European Avalanche Hazard Scale. On top of that, the numerical gradings used before have been dropped in favour of more easily understood descriptions ranging from from 'low' through to 'very high'.

 The new reports can either be read on the web or downloaded as a PDF, the main difference is that the web version has interactive elements, so you can hover over highlighted words for a full explanation. There's also a mobile text service, so you can download the report direct to your phone.

We reckon it's a clear step forward and makes the already excellent avalanche forecasts easier to understand and use. Over the winter months, it's a no-brainer to check the forecast regularly and take prevailing conditions into account when planning your day.

The SAIS is available on the web at www.sais.gov.uk