It’s always a good idea to find out what the weather will be like in the area where you’ll be hiking. Before heading into the mountains, check the weather forecast for both your starting and finishing point, so you can organise your backpack and clothing accordingly.
Check the ARPAV Veneto weather reports and in particular the area you intend to visit. It’s a good idea to check the forecast both before you leave (a couple of days beforehand) and on the actual day of your hike. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, especially in the summer.
In the winter you must also consult the avalanche forecast.
Be extra vigilant in thunderstorms, when there is the risk of lightning: keep an eye out for any signs of an approaching thunderstorm, because the weather in the mountains can change quickly. If you are taken by surprise by a thunderstorm, always:
- head immediately down the mountain
- keep away from trees, summit crosses and isolated peaks
- seek shelter on flat ground and crouch down
- steer clear of equipped trails and metal cables
- keep away from water in caves
- avoid via ferratas and rock faces
- if you’re with a group, spread out so you’re not standing too close to each other
Layer your clothing, so you can add or remove a layer according to how hot or cold it is, and to protect yourself from the wind at high altitude.
Make sure you already know where shelters, bivouacs, refuges and alternative paths are, should the weather suddenly take a turn for the worse.
It’s also important to know exactly where you are on the trail at all times.
