The Great Conjunction
20th December 2020
Covid-19
The Scottish Avalanche Information Service would recommend that those wishing to enjoy the winter mountains refer to Mountaineering Scotland and Scottish Government advice regarding Covid-19 and outdoor activities.
The gas giant planets of Jupiter and Saturn will align tomorrow, 21st December 2020 (also the winter solstice), the closest alignment since 1623. It feels like we haven’t had decent snow cover in the Torridon mountains since 1623…!
Meanwhile, on planet Earth, in particular the North West of Scotland, we have new snow cover making the mountain landscape look wintry, albeit a dusting on the higher summits. Snow deposits will continue to build through tomorrow in sheltered lee areas with shallow localised pockets of windslab developing – see Forecast Snow Stability and Hazard page of our report.
Otherwise, if you are more interested in the Great Conjuction, check out our clear sky towards the SSW at around 8 degrees above the horizon, between 16.30 (as it gets dark) and 18.00 for best viewings. A good pair of binoculars will do. Good luck with the clear skies!
Fresh snow just visible through the clouds on Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich and Sgurr Mor.
Similar dusting of snow on Meall a’ Chrasgaidh (left) and Sgurr nan Clach Geala of the Fannaich mountains.
Dark skies over the Torridon mountains as the next shower approaches, with the Great Wilderness munros of Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair (left) and Sgurr Ban highlighted.
Rainbow over An Teallach.
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