Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich weather forecast.

948 m summit in Skye. 8 forecast days covering wind, cloud, rain and temperature, updated 22 September 2026 at 06:08 UTC.

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Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather48/100Poor
Wind10-30 mph southwesterly Gusts35-45 mph Feels like0 to 4°C PrecipitationUp to around 2 mm Cloud-free summit estimate25% Cloud base through day600-900 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:08 · Sunset 19:25 · 12.3 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Frequent summit cloud on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 10-30 mph, with gusts 35-45 mph at times (strong winds).

Things to watch

Recent nearby rain suggests possible spate risk now. High spate risk during the morning, with forecast rain and subsequent runoff. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. These modelled periods do not establish when runoff from the observed rain will ease. Burns and unbridged crossings may become difficult or impassable. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 5-15 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.

Cloud & views

Cloud base mostly around 600–900 m through daylight. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.

Rain & temperature

Some rain is likely, totalling up to around 2 mm, but its timing and local amounts are uncertain. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 24-29 mph at walker height, with gusts 34-41 mph.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Exposed tops may feel chilly in the wind.

A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges.

Forecast models differ on whether meaningful rain reaches the hills during the morning.

Cloud-free timing: Around 15% early, improving to around 35% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates Less than 1 hour of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.

Early
0 h
Midday
Less than 1 hour
Later
0 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 20-30 mph early in the morning, easing to 10-20 mph later. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is possible during the morning, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
35/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Mixed Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
60/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaCondensation risk is high near 900 m. 83/100Good · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 22 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks promising overall around 600 m (83/100). A lower pitch near 300 m looks more comfortable. Conditions are less suitable by 900 m. It may be breezy on open ground, with gusts near 25 mph. Peak gusts range from about 15 mph at 300 m to 25 mph at 900 m. A little rain is forecast overnight. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 6.6°C at 300 m to 4.7°C at 900 m.

Overnight rain0.3 mm Open ground · 600 m9 mph · gusts 20 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 4°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
86%
Moonrise
18:26 BST
Moonset
02:40 next morning BST

Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 22 Sep, 17:00 BST to 23 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m84/100 · promising
Wind / gust
8 mph / 17 mph
Typical / low
8.2°C / 6.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m83/100 · promising
Wind / gust
9 mph / 20 mph
Typical / low
8.2°C / 6.6°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m64/100 · reasonable
Wind / gust
11 mph / 24 mph
Typical / low
6.2°C / 4.7°C · a brief spell
In cloud
47% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaRock may be damp or still drying. Gusts near 40 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor0/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Recent rain may leave seepage and damp rock, especially on shaded sections. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 40 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceDry overhead; seepage uncertainPeak gust38 mphRain0.8 mm
Main factorsgusts around 40 mphdamp or incompletely dried rock possiblemuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Tuesday 22 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather70/100Good
Wind10-25 mph northwesterly Gusts20-30 mph Feels like-2 to 2°C PrecipitationLittle or none Cloud-free summit estimate60% Cloud base through day600-1,600 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:11 · Sunset 19:22 · 12.2 hours daylight

The day on the hill

On Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 10-25 mph, with gusts 20-30 mph at times (a fresh breeze).

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 600–900 m in the morning, lifting to 1000–1300 m around midday and 1300–1600 m by late afternoon. Summit cloud is extensive early, becoming less frequent later.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain. Little or no rain is forecast.

Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 2 to 6°C, feeling around -2 to 2°C in the wind.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.

Rain timing may shift by several hours, which could change how much of the main walking period stays dry.

Cloud-free timing: Around 15% early, improving to around 70% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 9.3 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
1.3 h
Midday
4 h
Later
2 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Mixed Summit winds around 15-25 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
58/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Good Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later.
83/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 900 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 30 mph at times. Lower sheltered ground may be less exposed, but this forecast does not confirm a suitable pitch or a safe approach. Check its overnight conditions separately. 39/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 23 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 900 m: gusts may reach about 45 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 30 mph at times. Lower sheltered ground may be less exposed, but this forecast does not confirm a suitable pitch or a safe approach. Check its overnight conditions separately. Open-hillside camping looks poor overall around 600 m (39/100). Peak gusts range from about 30 mph at 300 m to 45 mph at 900 m. Wind direction may change substantially during the night. Shelter that works at dusk may be less effective later. Little overnight rain is forecast. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. The coldest temperature falls from about 6.2°C at 300 m to 4.2°C at 900 m.

Overnight rain0.0 mm Open ground · 600 m13 mph · gusts 38 mph Morning pack-upNo wet signal Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 4°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
92%
Moonrise
18:33 BST
Moonset
04:06 next morning BST

Views of the Moon may come and go through cloud breaks. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 23 Sep, 17:00 BST to 24 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
11 mph / 32 mph
Typical / low
6.6°C / 6.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
600 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
13 mph / 38 mph
Typical / low
6.6°C / 6.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
7% of modelled night
Condensation
Low
900 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
15 mph / 45 mph
Typical / low
4.5°C / 4.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
33% of modelled night
Condensation
Low

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaRock may be damp or still drying. Poor45/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look mixed (45/100). Recent rain may leave seepage and damp rock, especially on shaded sections. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain.

Rock surfaceDry overhead; seepage uncertainPeak gust27 mphRainPossible · 52%
Main concerndamp or incompletely dried rock possible
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Wednesday 23 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather2/100Poor
Wind40-55 mph southerly Gusts65-75 mph Feels like-4 to 0°C PrecipitationAround 10-20 mm Cloud-free summit estimate50% Cloud base through day500-1,700 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:13 · Sunset 19:19 · 12.1 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Strong gusts on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 40-55 mph, with gusts 65-75 mph at times (gale-force mean winds at times). Visibility may drop briefly in showers.

Things to watch

High spate risk from the afternoon into the night, with forecast rain and subsequent runoff. Risk may continue beyond the daytime period shown. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. Burns and unbridged crossings may become difficult or impassable. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 20-30 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 500–800 m in the morning, then around 1400–1700 m around midday and 500–800 m by late afternoon. The top is likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a view from the morning into the afternoon.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on southern slopes and lift somewhat on the northern side, but local terrain can differ. Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.

Rain & temperature

Rain and drizzle are forecast for much of the day, with some passing showers too. The forecast total is around 10-20 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 4 to 8°C, feeling around -4 to 0°C in the wind. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 45-55 mph at walker height, with gusts 62-76 mph.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.

If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.

The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges.

Forecast models disagree materially on rainfall amounts.

Cloud-free timing: Around 25% early, falling to around 10% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates Less than 1 hour of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
0 h
Midday
Less than 1 hour
Later
0 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 30-40 mph early in the morning, strengthening to 35-45 mph later. Gusts around 55-65 mph are possible on exposed ground. Walking into the wind is likely to be arduous, with buffeting that can knock you off balance. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
11/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Severe hill conditions Winds strengthen compared with the morning. More rain is expected. Summit winds around 40-50 mph. Gusts around 60-70 mph are possible on exposed ground. The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is forecast during the afternoon, but models differ considerably on the amount.
0/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 70 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 50 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. 9/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Thursday 24 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 70 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 50 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (9/100). Peak gusts range from about 50 mph at 300 m to 70 mph at 900 m. Roughly 17.6 mm is forecast overnight, including rain around pitching time. Pitches near 600 and 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300, 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 8.4°C at 300 m to 5.9°C at 900 m.

Overnight rain17.6 mm Open ground · 600 m28 mph · gusts 61 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 4°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waxing gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
97%
Moonrise
18:38 BST
Moonset
05:31 next morning BST

Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 24 Sep, 17:00 BST to 25 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
23 mph / 51 mph
Typical / low
8.6°C / 8.4°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
28 mph / 61 mph
Typical / low
8.2°C / 7.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
73% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m0/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
33 mph / 72 mph
Typical / low
6.4°C / 5.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
73% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 70 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor0/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 70 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust69 mphRain10.2 mm
Main factorsgusts around 70 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Thursday 24 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather26/100Poor
Wind20-35 mph southwesterly Gusts40-50 mph Feels like-2 to 2°C PrecipitationUp to around 2 mm Cloud-free summit estimate55% Cloud base through day500-1,600 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:15 · Sunset 19:16 · 12.0 hours daylight

The day on the hill

On Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 20-35 mph, with gusts 40-50 mph at times (strong winds).

Things to watch

Thunderstorms are possible from the morning into the evening. Avoid committing to exposed ridges if storms begin to build.

If a thunderstorm develops, sudden gusts and heavy rain can change conditions quickly.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 15-25 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 1300–1600 m through the morning, lowering to 500–800 m by late afternoon. The top is likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a view from early morning into around midday.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.

Drizzle is forecast for much of the day. The forecast total is up to around 2 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 4 to 8°C, feeling around -2 to 2°C in the wind. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 28-37 mph at walker height, with gusts 40-52 mph.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.

If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.

Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Thunderstorm timing is inherently uncertain and may shift by several hours.

Cloud-free timing: Around 85% early, falling to around 30% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 10.4 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
2 h
Midday
3.4 h
Later
3 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Some forecast models bring rain during the morning, while others keep it mostly dry.
39/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Poor Summit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is forecast during this period. Some forecast models bring rain during the afternoon, while others keep it mostly dry.
12/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 50 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Moderate thunderstorm risk. 0/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Friday 25 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 50 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 35 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (0/100). Peak gusts range from about 35 mph at 300 m to 50 mph at 900 m. Roughly 16.4 mm is forecast overnight, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. Pitches near 600 and 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300, 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 8.4°C at 300 m to 6.2°C at 900 m. Moderate thunderstorm risk, broadly from late afternoon into the evening. Avoid exposed ridges and summits and be prepared to descend.

Overnight rain16.4 mm Open ground · 600 m28 mph · gusts 43 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 6°C or lower

Moon overnight

Near-full moon

Illuminated disc
99%
Moonrise
18:42 BST
Moonset
06:58 next morning BST

Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 25 Sep, 17:00 BST to 26 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m14/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
23 mph / 36 mph
Typical / low
8.9°C / 8.4°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m0/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
28 mph / 43 mph
Typical / low
8.4°C / 8.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
73% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m0/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
32 mph / 51 mph
Typical / low
6.7°C / 6.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
73% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaModerate thunderstorm risk. Avoid exposed rock if storms develop. Wet rock is likely. Gusts near 40 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor0/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 40 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Moderate thunderstorm risk, broadly from the morning into the evening. Avoid committing to exposed ground if storms develop.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust42 mphRain1.2 mm
Main factorsmoderate thunderstorm risk on exposed groundgusts around 40 mphwet rock likely
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Friday 25 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather0/100Poor
Wind30-45 mph southwesterly Gusts50-60 mph Feels like0 to 4°C PrecipitationAround 10-20 mm Cloud-free summit estimate5% Cloud base through day500-800 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:17 · Sunset 19:14 · 11.9 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Strong gusts and frequent summit cloud on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 30-45 mph, with gusts 50-60 mph at times (gale-force mean winds at times). Visibility may drop briefly in showers.

Things to watch

High spate risk through the day and overnight, with recent and forecast rain and subsequent runoff. Risk may continue beyond the daytime period shown. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. Burns and unbridged crossings may become difficult or impassable. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 15-25 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind.

Cloud & views

Cloud base mostly around 500–800 m through daylight. Cloud is likely to cover the top for most or all of daylight, with no dependable break.

Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.

Drizzle is forecast for much of the day, with some passing showers too. The forecast total is around 10-20 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 4 to 8°C, feeling around 0 to 4°C in the wind. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 28-46 mph at walker height, with gusts 39-64 mph.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be wet after recent rain.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. A windproof layer will help, with an extra warm layer for stops.

If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.

Forecast models differ on whether meaningful rain reaches the hills during the afternoon and evening.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 7.7 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.

Early
2 h
Midday
3.6 h
Later
Less than 1 hour

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Poor Summit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Buffeting may affect balance on exposed ground, particularly near ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is possible during the morning, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
9/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Severe hill conditions Winds strengthen compared with the morning. More rain is expected. Summit winds around 25-35 mph in the early afternoon, strengthening to 35-45 mph later. Gusts around 50-60 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is possible during the afternoon, but forecast models disagree on whether it will fall.
0/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 60 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 40 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. 9/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Saturday 26 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 60 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 40 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (9/100). Peak gusts range from about 40 mph at 300 m to 60 mph at 900 m. Roughly 16.9 mm is forecast overnight, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. Pitches near 600 and 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300, 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 9.2°C at 300 m to 6.8°C at 900 m.

Overnight rain16.9 mm Open ground · 600 m26 mph · gusts 49 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 6°C or lower

Moon overnight

Near-full moon

Illuminated disc
100%
Moonrise
18:47 BST
Moonset
Outside this window

Cloud at the reference camping height may hide the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 26 Sep, 17:00 BST to 27 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
22 mph / 41 mph
Typical / low
9.5°C / 9.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
26 mph / 49 mph
Typical / low
8.9°C / 8.5°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
31 mph / 58 mph
Typical / low
7.1°C / 6.8°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 6°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 55 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor0/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 55 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust56 mphRain13.6 mm
Main factorsgusts around 55 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Saturday 26 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather0/100Severe hill conditions
Wind30-50 mph southwesterly Gusts60-70 mph Feels like-2 to 2°C PrecipitationAround 10-20 mm Cloud-free summit estimate45% Cloud base through day400-1,500 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:19 · Sunset 19:11 · 11.9 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Strong gusts on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 30-50 mph, with gusts 60-70 mph at times (gale-force mean winds at times). Visibility may drop briefly in showers.

Things to watch

High spate risk through much of the day and into the night, with recent and forecast rain and subsequent runoff. Risk may continue beyond the daytime period shown. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. Burns and unbridged crossings may become difficult or impassable. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 15-25 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 400–700 m in the morning, lifting to 600–900 m around midday and 1200–1500 m by late afternoon. The top is likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a view from late afternoon into the evening.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud.

Drizzle is forecast for much of the day, with some passing showers too. The forecast total is around 10-20 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 2 to 6°C, feeling around -2 to 2°C in the wind. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength: around 39-50 mph at walker height, with gusts 54-69 mph.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be saturated after recent rain. Expect boggy paths and rapid runoff if more rain arrives.

Forecast confidence

Cloud height remains uncertain, especially where it is close to summit level. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.

If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.

The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges.

Rain is forecast during the main walking period, but models differ considerably on the amount.

0 is the bottom of the scale. Use the hazard details to judge how severe conditions could be.

Cloud-free timing: Around 5% early, improving to around 95% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 6.5 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.

Early
0 h
Midday
2.5 h
Later
3 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Severe hill conditions Summit winds around 35-45 mph. Gusts around 60-70 mph are possible on exposed ground. The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
0/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Severe hill conditions More rain is expected. Summit winds around 40-50 mph in the early afternoon, easing to 30-40 mph later. Gusts around 60-70 mph are possible on exposed ground. The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period. Rain is forecast during the afternoon, but models differ considerably on the amount.
0/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaGusts near 40 mph make meaningful shelter important. 39/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 27 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Open-hillside camping looks poor overall around 600 m (39/100). A lower pitch near 300 m looks more comfortable. Conditions are less suitable by 900 m. Open-ground gusts may reach about 40 mph. Seek meaningful shelter. Peak gusts range from about 30 mph at 300 m to 40 mph at 900 m. Wind direction may change substantially during the night. Shelter that works at dusk may be less effective later. Around 4.4 mm is forecast, including rain around pitching time. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. The coldest temperature falls from about 7°C at 300 m to 3.5°C at 900 m.

Overnight rain4.4 mm Open ground · 600 m15 mph · gusts 35 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 4°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waning gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
98%
Moonrise
18:52 BST
Moonset
Outside this window

Views of the Moon may come and go through cloud breaks. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 27 Sep, 17:00 BST to 28 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m59/100 · mixed
Wind / gust
12 mph / 29 mph
Typical / low
7.4°C / 7.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
15 mph / 35 mph
Typical / low
6.6°C / 6.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
900 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
17 mph / 41 mph
Typical / low
4.4°C / 3.5°C · much of the night
In cloud
47% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

The ground is likely to be very wet after recent rain. Expect boggy approaches and choose a durable pitch carefully.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 65 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor0/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 65 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust65 mphRain15.4 mm
Main factorsgusts around 65 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Sunday 27 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Unavailable
Overall hill weather69/100Mixed
Wind15-30 mph southwesterly Gusts30-40 mph Feels like-6 to -2°C PrecipitationAround 5-10 mm Cloud-free summit estimate70% Cloud base through day700-1,800 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:21 · Sunset 19:08 · 11.8 hours daylight

The day on the hill

A wet day on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 15-30 mph, with gusts 30-40 mph at times (a fresh breeze). Visibility may drop briefly in showers.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 5-15 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.

Cloud & views

Cloud base around 1500–1800 m around midday, lowering to 700–1000 m by late afternoon. Cloud is likely to come and go across the top, with views in the clearer spells.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Sunny spells are possible away from summit cloud, but may not reach the top while it is in cloud. Drizzle is forecast for much of the day, with some passing showers too.

The forecast total is around 5-10 mm, but local amounts will vary. Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 2 to 6°C, feeling around -6 to -2°C in the wind.

Forecast models differ on summit wind strength. Treat the wind figures as a guide.

Keep windproof and warm layers readily available. If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly.

Keep a dry warm layer protected.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be saturated after recent rain. Expect boggy paths and rapid runoff if more rain arrives.

Forecast confidence

Overall confidence is unavailable: insufficient comparable wind, rain guidance.

Cloud-free timing: Around 95% early, falling to around 20% later.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 11 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Early
2 h
Midday
4 h
Later
3 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Excellent Summit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Rain is forecast during this period.
88/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Mixed Winds strengthen compared with the morning. More rain is expected. Summit winds around 15-25 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is forecast during this period.
50/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 75 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 50 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. 9/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Monday 28 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 300, 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 75 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 50 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (9/100). Peak gusts range from about 50 mph at 300 m to 75 mph at 900 m. Roughly 27.4 mm is forecast overnight, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 300, 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 5.4°C at 300 m to 3.2°C at 900 m.

Overnight rain27.4 mm Open ground · 600 m30 mph · gusts 62 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 2°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waning gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
94%
Moonrise
18:59 BST
Moonset
Outside this window

Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 28 Sep, 17:00 BST to 29 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
25 mph / 51 mph
Typical / low
6.5°C / 5.4°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
30 mph / 62 mph
Typical / low
6.5°C / 5.4°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m0/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
35 mph / 73 mph
Typical / low
4.2°C / 3.2°C · much of the night
In cloud
100% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

The ground is likely to be very wet after recent rain. Expect boggy approaches and choose a durable pitch carefully.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 35 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor43/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look mixed (43/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 35 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust34 mphRain5.6 mm
Main factorsgusts around 35 mphwet rock likely
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Monday 28 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Confidence: Unavailable
Overall hill weather0/100Severe hill conditions
Wind30-55 mph southwesterly Gusts60-70 mph Feels like-6 to -2°C PrecipitationAround 20-40 mm Cloud-free summit estimate10% Cloud base through day600-900 m Freezing levelAbove summit DaylightSunrise 07:23 · Sunset 19:05 · 11.7 hours daylight

The day on the hill

Strong gusts and frequent summit cloud on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich: summit wind broadly 30-55 mph, with gusts 60-70 mph at times (gale-force mean winds at times). Heavier showers may bring brief, stronger gusts and rapidly reduced visibility.

Things to watch

Severe spate risk through the day and overnight, with recent and forecast rain and subsequent runoff. Risk may continue beyond the daytime period shown. Timings are approximate, not a guarantee of safe crossings afterwards. Burns and unbridged crossings may become difficult or impassable. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.

Wind & exposure

Much calmer lower down - generally 10-20 mph in the valley, rising towards the tops.

Cloud & views

Cloud base mostly around 600–900 m through daylight. Summit cloud is likely, but brief clear spells remain possible if the cloud sits higher than expected.

Cloud-height uncertainty could put the summit in or out of cloud. Clear spells may be difficult to time.

Cloud may hang lower on southwestern slopes and lift somewhat on the northeastern side, but local terrain can differ. Any sunshine may be confined to lower ground or breaks away from the summit.

Drizzle is forecast for much of the day, with some passing showers too. The forecast total is around 20-40 mm, but local amounts will vary.

Cold on exposed tops: air temperature broadly 2 to 6°C, feeling around -6 to -2°C in the wind. Forecast models differ on summit wind strength.

Treat the wind figures as a guide. Keep windproof and warm layers readily available.

If clothing gets wet, you can cool more quickly. Keep a dry warm layer protected.

The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges.

Rain & temperature

The ground is likely to be saturated after recent rain. Expect boggy paths and rapid runoff if more rain arrives.

Forecast confidence

Overall confidence is unavailable: insufficient comparable wind, rain guidance.

0 is the bottom of the scale. Use the hazard details to judge how severe conditions could be.

Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine

The surrounding model grid indicates 9.1 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.

Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.

Early
1.4 h
Midday
3.8 h
Later
2 h

Overnight forecast: 17:00–08:00 (UK local time), in Wild camping below.

Morning · 08:00–12:00 Severe hill conditions Summit winds around 40-50 mph early in the morning, easing to 35-45 mph later. Gusts around 60-70 mph are possible on exposed ground. The strongest gusts could knock you over on exposed ground. Avoid exposed ridges and edges. Rain is forecast during this period.
0/100
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00 Poor Winds ease compared with the morning. Summit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 40-50 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts may knock you off balance on exposed ground, even between spells of lighter wind. Rain is forecast during this period.
8/100

Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.

Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaExposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 55 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 40 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. 19/100Poor · 600 m View detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 29 September 2026

Full overnight outlook

Exposed camping is not recommended near 600 and 900 m: gusts may reach about 55 mph. Sustained winds may reach about 40 mph at times. Choose an alternative off the exposed hill. Do not rely on finding shelter after setting out. Open-hillside camping looks very poor overall around 600 m (19/100). Peak gusts range from about 35 mph at 300 m to 55 mph at 900 m. Roughly 5.1 mm is forecast overnight, with rain liable to affect both pitching and packing up. Pitches near 900 m may spend part of the night in cloud, bringing damp conditions and poor visibility while cloud is present. Condensation risk is high near 600 and 900 m. Ventilation will matter. The coldest temperature falls from about 6°C at 300 m to 2.9°C at 900 m.

Overnight rain5.1 mm Open ground · 600 m27 mph · gusts 45 mph Morning pack-upDampness possible Sleeping-bag warmthISO comfort rating about 4°C or lower

Moon overnight

Waning gibbous moon

Illuminated disc
87%
Moonrise
19:10 BST
Moonset
Outside this window

Views of the Moon may come and go through cloud breaks. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.

Overnight window: 29 Sep, 17:00 BST to 30 Sep, 08:00 BST. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.

300 m39/100 · poor
Wind / gust
22 mph / 37 mph
Typical / low
6.3°C / 6.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m19/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
27 mph / 45 mph
Typical / low
6.3°C / 6.0°C · much of the night
In cloud
13% of modelled night
Condensation
High
900 m9/100 · very poor
Wind / gust
31 mph / 53 mph
Typical / low
4.1°C / 2.9°C · much of the night
In cloud
73% of modelled night
Condensation
High

Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.

The ground is likely to be very wet after recent rain. Expect boggy approaches and choose a durable pitch carefully.

Open-hillside reference. A sheltered pitch may be calmer; cols and ridges may be much windier. Tent design and the exact pitch still matter. Read about sleeping-bag comfort ratings, pitching in strong winds or using the wild-camping forecast.

Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

Approximate height is enough, please do not share an exact wild-camp location.

Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaWet rock is likely. Gusts near 65 mph may affect balance on exposed rock. Poor0/100 View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance

Full climbing & scrambling outlook

Conditions for exposed scrambling look very poor (0/100). Rain during the climbing period is likely to leave rock wet and more slippery. The mapped summit rock is Microgabbro (Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)). Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Representative samples along available mapped routes also include Bytownite troctolite, Olivine-gabbro and 1 other mapped type, so rock character and wet-weather behaviour may change across the mountain. Gusts may reach about 65 mph. Crosswinds can make exposed ridges substantially more serious. Cloud may also make route-finding and retreat harder.

Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust67 mphRain21.0 mm
Main factorsgusts around 65 mphwet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Mapped rock across the summit and available routes Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre)
Origin
Igneous
Rock family
Granite, gneiss or gabbro
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Rock-response profile
Moderate confidence
View the summit BGS record

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery. Summit-point mapping plus representative BGS bedrock samples along available GPX routes. These are not continuous geological surveys; contacts, superficial deposits and the exposed rock on individual holds may differ.

Rock groups along the sampled routes

These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.

Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

granite, gneiss or gabbro

Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation

5 rock types appear across the available route samples

The summit type remains the forecast's cautious rock-response reference. Other mapped types show where conditions may behave differently elsewhere on the mountain.

Summit mapping Microgabbro Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B1 (Cuillin Centre) Around 907 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B3 (Cuillin Centre) 568–795 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Olivine-gabbro Outer Gabbros, A1 (Cuillin Centre) 231–343 m samples Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Basalt and microgabbro North Britain Palaeogene Dyke Suite Around 116 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record
Route sample Bytownite troctolite Outer Bytownite Troctolites, B2 (Cuillin Centre) Around 454 m Seen on Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich

Generally grippy when dry and often still positive when damp, but wet slabs, lichen, polish and drainage lines can remain slippery.

BGS record

Generic exposed scrambling terrain; mapped summit-point bedrock is included where available, but route grade, exact rock, polish, drainage and escape options remain unresolved. Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026. How to use the climbing and scrambling forecast.

Did this match your experience?Tell us about the rock surface and wind to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback

A broad surface report is enough; you do not need to identify a particular route.

Overnight · Aurora, stars & meteorsAfter darkBetaNight-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. View forecastClose forecast

After dark: aurora and stargazing

Night-sky guidance is unavailable for this night. This does not mean clear skies or no aurora.

Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit

For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.

Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part

Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.

This is about Sgùrr Mhic Chòinnich on Tuesday 29 September 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.

Open the questions to take part.

About the research and your privacy · Already been out? Share that experience instead

Weather data: Open-Meteo (CC BY 4.0). Adapted by Mountain Weather.

Forecast run: 2026-09-22

A forecast is part of the decision.

Mountain weather can differ sharply from conditions in the valley. Check official warnings, carry appropriate navigation and clothing, and be ready to change the plan. Read how Mountain Weather forecasts are produced and where their limits lie.