Deep in the wilderness it's highly unlikely you're going to be able to get updated local weather forecasts. Essentially, you must become your own forecaster.Obviously predicting the weather is difficult - even for the local weatherman - and especially in the mountains. However, there are several things that can help hikers to better understand weather patterns.
One of those is learning how to identify different clouds. Being able to assess those clouds approaching in the distance can help you determine if it's just a short front passing through, or a long lasting storm.
In the most recent online issue of Backpacker, the magazine has posted a very helpful article that explains how to identify the various cloud formations and what they mean. They even have a quiz to make sure you understood what you just read.
Having a little knowledge on weather forecasting could mean the difference between a great hike and a horrible one.
As far as keeping up with updated forecasts in the Smokies, as well as finding historical climate information, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com
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