How quickly can the weather change in the Norwegian mountains?
Why mountain weather turns fast, what the Mountain Code says and how to plan your hike.
Short answer
Weather in the Norwegian mountains can change quickly and without warning, and sleet or snow can fall even in summer, according to Innovation Norway and DNT. The Norwegian Mountain Code therefore asks hikers to be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips, and to check the forecast before setting out.
Why
- In its notes on the Mountain Code, DNT reminds hikers that the weather changes quickly in the mountains.
- Rule 4 of the Mountain Code, developed by DNT and the Norwegian Red Cross, says to be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
- Visit Norway warns that mountain winds can get quite cold and that strong winds will tire you out quickly.
Details
Dress in layers even when it is sunny and warm, and carry rain and windproof outerwear on summer days too. Check the forecast for both the area you are visiting and the wider region. If thunder and lightning approach, leave peaks and ridges for lower ground.
Tip
Check Yr for the weather and Varsom for avalanche, flood and ice warnings, decide in advance where you will turn back, and remember rule 8 of the Mountain Code: there is no shame in turning around.
What may differ
Winter is more demanding: Visit Norway says it requires proper preparation, and the Mountain Code also asks you to recognise avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.
Common misconception
If the sun is out when you start, the weather will hold for the whole hike.
What actually happens
Visit Norway says that even when the sun is out, you need to be prepared for sudden weather changes, and the Innovation Norway and DNT leaflet warns that sleet or snow can fall in the mountains even in summer.
People also ask
- Why does the weather change so fast in the Norwegian mountains?
Sources
- DNT: The Norwegian Mountain CodeChecked at:
- Visit Norway: The mountain codeChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Mountain safetyChecked at:
- Innovation Norway and DNT: Safety in the Norwegian mountains during summerChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Conditions change, so check the forecast on Yr and the warnings on Varsom before you go.
Safety in the Norwegian mountainsRelated questions
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What does 'there is no bad weather, only bad clothing' mean in Norway?
The saying means that bad weather is no reason to stay indoors, because the right clothes let you enjoy being outside in rain, wind or cold.
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Do I need sunscreen in Norway?
Yes, you need sunscreen in Norway, especially in spring and summer, on snow in the mountains and on the water, where reflection makes UV radiation stronger.
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Do I need ice grips (brodder) on my shoes in a Norwegian winter?
Ice grips, called brodder in Norwegian, are worth packing for a winter trip, because temperatures around freezing often leave pavements and paths icy.
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What shoes should I bring to Norway?
Bring sturdy shoes that handle rain and rough paths, and in winter warm boots with room for wool socks and a good grip on ice.