The Clachaig Glacier

So, how's the weather where you are then? A remarkable spell without doubt. Here at all-but-sea-level on the west coast we don't see much in the way of lying snow. Plenty on the hills, but not a lot in the glen. Unusual then, to see any snow that does fall lie for more than 24 hours. With a slow thaw now setting in, we're saying farewell to snow that fell on 19th December, nearly 4 weeks ago. I've been (mostly) here since 1984 and that's a first!

So, what of the thaw? Has global warming reached Glencoe? Well, it is true that the Clachaig Glacier is receding. This little ice flow has been gathering in the sometimes ridiculously low temperatures over the Festive Break in the lower car park. It has now reached the magnitude of the Mer de Glace, high above the Chamonix Valley. The British Antarctic Survey have set up a camp. It is said that when it melts the sea level in Loch Leven will rise by a full 2 feet. And its a real bugger when it comes to staying upright when you get out of your car.


The odd thing is that the ice has actually been formed by rising water, rather than flowing water. As the stream descends Clachaig Gully it gradually disappears underground and unless there's a real downpour on you won't see any water once it leaves the bottom of the gully. The car park is where at least a little of it makes a bid for the fresh air once again.

Higher up the wintry weather still has a firm grip. Southerly winds this weekend look like they'll take the freezing level to near the summits. How long this milder spell will last remains uncertain just now. However, chances are it will be a while yet before we see the last of ice at Clachaig.