If you're going to climb a mountain, better come prepared. For all its majestic views, mountains can be especially hazardous if the climber is inexperienced or ignorant of certain conditions involved. One of these is the weather.

Weather in the mountains can be notoriously unpredictable and can change quickly during the course of a day. This is why it's absolutely necessary to find out about weather conditions before heading out for a trip. Remember that once you have begun your ascent, you are at the mercy of the mountain and you can't do anything about the weather. You need to be prepared to face it.

Starting out Always refer to the weather reports during the week before the climb. It is necessary to know the general conditions during the days preceding your climb so you can assess your route more accurately. Sunny weather during the climb will not assure a safe trip if a storm passed over the area the day before. This is a consideration you will need to be aware of.

You might also want to check with the forest service before going up the mountain. They often maintain regular monitoring of the prevailing conditions in the mountains and can advise you on whether it's safe to climb or not or which areas to avoid or keep to during your climb.

Dress up for rain At ground level, you probably won't have any problems with mountain weather. Prevalent conditions are likely to stay the same all day. But as you climb, weather conditions can change. Even when you're climbing during summer, it's best to bring rain gear. Mountains are generously blessed with precipitation and it's not unusual to be rained on during your trek.

Wear sensible shoes and protective clothing. You can also opt to dress in several layers, so you can add or remove as mountain conditions and personal comfort dictate. Oftentimes, it's necessary to bring insulated clothing to protect you against extremely cold conditions, especially at higher elevations. It is also possible to experience snow in the mountains even during summer.

Mountain summits can also be the site of storms because of the nearly constant presence of clouds. Precipitation in these locations can also be high and rain often occurs in these areas. Climbers should watch out for sudden drops in temperature and sudden rainstorms when they are near the mountain top.

The risk of rain Rainy weather in the mountains can spell many dangers for climbers. For one, rain can cause slippery rocks and terrain. It can also cause mudslides in unstable areas of the mountain.

Mountain rivers and streams can also be a hazard because of rain. Since these feed off the water brought by the rainstorm, they can increase in depth and flow speed rapidly and can quickly turn into a strong torrent of water right after a rainstorm.

Lightning Summer storms can bring lightning. This is especially a threat near the summit. Climbers have been struck by lightning before, so it's best to schedule your climb to avoid this accident. Since storms occur during late mornings or early afternoons, it's best to begin climbing during the early hours of the day to avoid increased risk of getting struck.

Climbing in the snow Avalanches are a threat to any climber especially during winter and spring. Heavy snow with strong winds usually produce unstable snow packs that cause avalanches. What may seem like a solid, reliable ground covered with snow can quickly change into a dangerous avalanche that can sweep a climber away, burying him under several feet of snow.

Rockfalls can also be caused by ice that form in the night which attach rocks to the surface of the mountain. During the day, when the weather is warm, the ice can melt and dislodge the rocks. In the spring or in summer, snow can melt under the sun and weaken a patch. If a climber accidentally steps into one, it can cause the ground to fall under his weight and cause an avalanche.

Sunny weather At higher elevations, it is absolutely necessary to protect yourself against the sun's rays. You may not feel the heat because of the colder atmosphere, but you are at a risk of suffering from a sunburn. Protect your eyes with the proper eyewear and wear a sunscreen or a sunblock.