How Cold is It at the Top of Mount Toubkal?
Got some plans to climb Mount Toubkal? If yes, then, the success of your hike all depends on the weather at the peak. Is it really that cold at the top of this Moroccan mountain? How cold is it at the top of Mount Toubkal, anyway?
Analyzing Mount Toubkal’s Temperature
According to weather data, temperatures at Toubkal’s summit vary a lot all year round. The months of winter, specifically from December through May, witness plummeting temperatures that go well below freezing. It is during this period that the minimum temperatures tend to drop to as low as -10 degrees Celsius and maybe even lower, specifically if you consider the presence of the wind chill.
Mount Toubkal in Summer
The months of summer are a stark contrast to the chilly months of winter, with the mountain summit taking on a somewhat milder climate. Temperatures experience a significant spike during the months of June through August. There are even instances when the temperature can reach more than 10 degrees Celsius in the heat of the day.
But as expected, because of the altitude, there is still a touch of chill to the temperatures on the mountain during summer. This becomes even more apparent the moment the sun sets in the horizon or when there is a cloud cover that sets in.
Changes in Autumn and Spring
Fluctuating temperatures are experience during the transitional seasons between spring and autumn. During these periods, conditions have the tendency to change in a snap. These two seasons often go through a combination of mild days and extremely cold nights. Every now and then, the temperatures also dip lower than the freezing point.
It’s in the Altitude
You might have already guessed it but this time but Mount Toubkal’s temperature will obviously become colder when you climb higher. Temperature decreases when altitude increases because of the thinning of the atmosphere that tends to hold less heat. It explains why even during days that start off as warm, climbers are recommended to brace for noticeably chillier temperatures the moment they ascend further.
Bracing Yourself for the Chill
If your ultimate goal is to reach the top of Mount Toubkal, you have to gear up and be ready for cold weather no matter what specific season you visit. By preparation, it means you should prepare and pack all the necessary gear including insulated clothes, gloves, hats, and windproof jackets.
Extra gear are also a must during winter such as a high quality down jacket, thermal layers, and heated insoles, all of which can make a big difference in your climbing experience.
Wrapping It Up
Mount Toubkal’s summit has something in store for the climbers not just in the form of the panoramic views but also that unique sense of achievement. However, you will only be able to accomplish the hike successful if you are ready to face the chilly temperatures.
Since it has already been established that it can get cold at the top of Toubkal, proper and adequate preparation is imperative while also making sure that you respect the climate of the mountain.