Snow, snow and more snow....

Mid February, school holidays looming and for once all five Scottish ski areas are plastered with snow. Those of you from the UK will be aware that Scotland has been in the grip of cold weather for the last week or so now. Between 2-4 foot of snow fell last Thursday and Friday alone followed by very cold conditions (it was -19 degrees C in Aviemore last night). Cairngorm, my local ski area, has superb pisted powder snow - point your skis in any direction stuff - just perfect. Not surprisingly, the ski area has been mobbed - car parks full to capacity by early morning, access roads jammed but also lots and lots of happy skiers and boarders. I'm pleased to say from the medical side that we have not been overwhelmed with lots of injuries so far, although for some reason we have seen quite a few pelvic injuries so far this year. Mainly pubic rami injuries from impacts with rocks - which given the generally great snow cover is a surprise and the individuals concerned have been pretty unlucky. This weekend coming promises to be one of the busiest for a long time as most English schools start their holidays and the credit crunch/strong Euro make it more likely that UK skiers will head to Scotland. If you are heading up, and can get up in time to access the slopes, then you are in for a real treat as the overhead conditions are forecast to continue to be cold but sunny with further snow showers. Just remember that Scotland is not Europe, be prepared for all weathers and - as ever - stay safe on snow.

Mike