The Lakes attract a staggering 18.1 million visitors yearly in summer, winter, rain or shine. Cumbria is a wonderful place to visit, and the great outdoors makes it a great place for exploring. With lakes for watersports, mountains and hillsides for hiking and walking, coastal routes for biking, and forests for enjoying nature, it is little wonder that so many people choose to visit all year round.
Whilst the Lake District is the perfect destination for an adventure, ensuring you are prepared before you go is incredibly important. The weather in the Lake District can be even more changeable than in many other areas of the UK. This is particularly true when you are on a more exposed hillside, so with this in mind, read on.
How To Stay Safe In The Lakes During Storms & Bad Weather
We have put together a guide on how to stay safe during storms or other bad weather in the Lakes.
Wear the right clothing
The right clothing can make all the difference when you are out and about and bad weather hits. Temperatures in the Lake District during the winter months can drop to between 2°C to 5°C. Snow, frost, and incredibly icy patches on roads and paths are common. There is also a very good chance of heavy rain, so wearing the right clothing can take a little planning.
Layers are better than throwing on a thick coat; they keep you warm. It also makes it easier to take off a layer if you go into a café for a hot drink. Remember to bring a hat and a good pair of gloves with you as well. Thick walking socks to ward off the cold seeping up through the ground are a must, as is a good pair of walking boots with a decent grip for icier patches. Bad weather, the Lake District and trainers are not a good combination. It is worth investing in some quality outdoor trousers, as jeans or jogging bottoms can let in the cold.
One final item of clothing to consider is a good-quality coat or waterproof layer that will protect you against sudden downpours. If you cannot find something with reflective strips that will help you be visible as it gets darker, consider reflectors like those popular with joggers and cyclists. These will help you be seen when it is darker or in bad weather when visibility can be poor.
Check the forecast
Weather forecasts are usually pretty accurate when predicting storms and other bad weather that should be avoided. If you are thinking about going out and about in the Lake District, particularly if that might be out on the water or a walk in the hills, it is vital to check the forecast before you go out. The weather can turn quickly, putting you in a dangerous position too quickly.
Charge phone
Ensuring that your phone is fully charged before you go out and about will help you call for assistance in case of an accident due to bad weather. It can also help you pinpoint where you are and where the closest places to shelter might be.
Tell people where you will be
One final thing to consider is that if the weather turns bad whilst you are out, it is easier for people to find you if they know roughly where you have gone. So before you head out, let your hotel or a friend know where you are going.
The Lake District isn’t dangerous but can pose unique risks when winter weather hits. Make sure you’re prepared, and you’ll have a wonderful time walking in the lakes this winter—no matter the weather.
How do you prepare for unexpected weather conditions while exploring the lakes?
*Disclosure: Collaborative Post
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