Presently on the Isle of Harris which, so far this week, has been as far as it can be from its Caribbean emulation mode. Wet and VERY windy.
Out in the car yesterday up onto Lewis. Went beyond Stornoway to Tolsta parking by the Bridge to Nowhere for those who know the place. Sunshine but wind that made keeping car doors under control a challenge. Thought I'd walk the 300 metres to the shoreline to see what I could see.
Got onto the sand but so exposed to wind I was at risk of being skittled. Turned back to the car, now walking directly into the wind; progress slow.
Suddenly a squall hit with even more wind and pelted with rain and hail.
Was wearing a walkers twill shirt over a tee and with an wind but not waterproof bomber jacket and my usual Rohan Bags. In less than two minutes I was soaked and frozen silly but fortunately nearly back at the car. Obviously given location at sea level and in an air temperature of around 11 degrees, strong wind but not with a winter type chill.
Made me think that if I'd been a thousand feet or so higher, a bit cooler and a distance to the car how quickly I'd have been in trouble.
If I'd been planning a proper walk I'd have had a cagoule with a fleece under and trousers that shed water better and provided more insulation.
Made me realise (again) the risk people going on the fells in street clothes etc take and how often they need help.
Last edited by: Bromptonaut on Wed 4 Jun 25 at 12:35
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