Scottish Weather (Part Two)

Scotland's weather is a subject close to the heart of her inhabitants. Its variability and uniqueness sets the country aside from many other global destinations, and keeps the Scottish people not just on their toes, but weather wise.

Some of the unique weather phenomenon taking place in Scotland each year includes the effects of the Gulf Stream and Fohn Effect, as well as the notorious North Sea Haar.

North Sea Haar
On the east coast of Scotland a sea fog, known locally as Haar, often plagues the local residents and ruins what would otherwise be a fine day. It most commonly occurs between April and September, on or near the east coast or in the Northern Isles.

High Temperatures
Another part of Scotland where a unique weather phenomenon takes place is the Moray area where winter can bring some unusually high temperatures. Daytime maximum temperatures over low ground in Scotland in January and February average around 5 to 7 degrees celsius.

However, on rare occasions in the lee of high ground, like Moray, temperatures can reach up to 15 degrees celsius or above, when a moist south or south-westerly airflow warms up after crossing the Grampian mountains. This is known as the Föhn Effect.

The classic Föhn Effect is experienced in the Alps and is a result of air cooling as it rises over the mountains, the resultant formation of clouds and loss of moisture through precipitation. However, just as air cools when it rises, it also warms at the same rate when it descends.

Examples of the Föhn Effect
2 Dec 1948 - 18.3°C (65°F) Achnashellach
6 Dec 1888 - 17.9°C (64.3°F) Forres (Grampian)
18 Dec 1972 - 17.7°C (63.9°F) Cape Wrath (Highland)

Palm Trees
The west coast of Scotland has its very own weather phenomenon that results in unusually high temperatures and flourishing Palm trees. One place affected by this is the small fishing village of Plockton.

Plockton, an 18th century planned village is one of the most beautifully situated villages in Scotland. Not only is it surrounded by mountains but it also enjoys a mild climate. This mild climate can be attributed to several factors. Firstly the village can be found on the east side of a great headland protruding out of Loch Carron, and therefore enjoys a position that protects it from sea gales. Secondly, it enjoys the warm waters of the Gulf Stream which make landfall on the west coast of Scotland. Hence, the reason its pretty harbour is unexpectedly fringed with Palm trees.