Weather
A subject dear to every visitor’s heart, and much discussed by locals. To pay attention to the national forecasts on television is to overlook the fact that in this area of Scotland the climate can be termed “very local”, meaning that it may be pouring with rain in Gairloch and bright and sunny in Poolewe only 6 miles away. It has often been noticed that dark cloud symbols have been littered across our area of the weather map when we can quite plainly see out of the window that there is not a cloud in the sky. The only way to find out about the weather is to stand outside for a couple of minutes, when all will probably become clear, or not, as the case may be. Of course, we cannot boast very high temperatures, but when the sun shines here the atmosphere is so free of pollutants that sunburn is a real possibility, and it is never wise to underestimate the power of the sun in this area.
Walk up into the hills and the temperature drops rapidly, so it is always advisable to take plenty of extra clothing with you. The weather can change in an instant and many a visitor has been caught out up a hill wearing sandals and T-shirt. If you are prepared to face whatever comes, then the changeable weather here can offer some unique photo opportunities.
In the summer months daylight hardly disappears and darkness may not come until as late as 11 o’clock. Gardening at midnight is a real possibility.
On rare occasions the Aurora borealis has been seen from Gairloch and Poolewe, with one of the best displays for years seen in 2004. It is a lucky visitor who witnesses this but it could happen!
The Tourist Information Office in Gairloch can provide both weather advice and information, and waterproofs for sale should the weather turn wet. Websites which can also give detailed information are:
BBC Weather
Weather Online
For an up to date and accurate forecast while you are in the area tune in to our local Two Lochs Radio station on 106 – 106.6 FM