Temperature Characteristics of Mountain Climates
The temperature in the mountains depends on altitude, latitude, time of year, and terrain. The range of fluctuations can be extreme. For example, at the summit of Everest (8848 m), the cold can reach -40°C with hurricane-force winds up to 200 km/h. At the same time, in the foothills or intermountain basins, such as Death Valley (USA), thermometers can rise to +56°C. Sharp drops are characteristic even of a single mountain within a day: on Kilimanjaro (5895 m), temperatures can swing from -7°C at night to +25°C during the day, and on Elbrus (5642 m), from -20°C at night to +10°C during the day.
Human Physiology: How Do We Cope with the Stress?
Fortunately, the human body is equipped with a thermoregulation system (homeothermy) — the ability to maintain a constant internal body temperature (around +36.6°C or 98.6°F) regardless of external conditions.
How it works:
• When overheating, sweating is activated: the evaporation of moisture from the skin's surface cools the body.
• When cooling, shivering sets in — involuntary muscle contractions that generate additional heat.
It's important to understand that vital organs (the so-called "core" of the body) are protected by muscles, the skeleton, and subcutaneous fat. The core temperature remains stable the longest. However, this stability has limits: human survival is possible only if the core body temperature stays within the range of approximately +28.8°C (83.8°F) to +42.7°C (108.9°F). Exceeding these boundaries risks death from overheating (hyperthermia) or hypothermia.
Main Dangers: Deviations from the Norm
The critical conditions that await a tourist in the mountains:
1. Heatstroke and Dehydration. Prolonged exposure to heat leads to overheating of the body's core, disruption of internal organs, and disorientation. Dehydration worsens the situation, as the body loses the fluid needed for cooling.
2. Hypothermia. Exposure to cold slows blood circulation and metabolism. Severe hypothermia leads to respiratory depression and cardiac arrest.
Even minor deviations from a comfortable temperature affect well-being. With mild hypothermia, shivering, apathy, and decreased performance occur. With overheating, lethargy, dizziness, thirst, and loss of appetite set in.
Gear and Tactics: How to Prepare for Fluctuations
To ensure a comfortable and safe hike, you need to be prepared for any weather surprises. The main principle is to have equipment that accounts for sharp changes.
• Clothing is the first line of defense. Pack items in layers (base layer, fleece, windproof jacket). It's always colder at high altitudes than down below, so warm clothing should be on hand even on a summer hike.
• Head Protection. The head is a key area for thermoregulation. In the cold, a hat retains heat; in the heat, lightweight headwear (cap, bandana) protects against sunstroke.
• Hydration. Monitor your fluid balance. Dehydration occurs faster in the mountains due to dry air and physical exertion. Always carry a supply of water.
• Listen to Your Body. Pay attention to how you feel. If you're hot, take a break in the shade and remove a layer of clothing. If you're getting cold, immediately put on warm layers and shelter from the wind.
What to Avoid
At high altitudes, the body operates under stress, so alcohol and antipyretic (fever-reducing) medications can have unpredictable negative effects. It's best to avoid them.
Conclusion
A mountain hike can be an unforgettable and health-beneficial experience, but it requires respect for nature and attention to your own body. Much depends on your preparation; however, properly chosen clothing and footwear are the first line of defense that will protect you from the whims of the weather and allow you to enjoy the journey.
Next guide: Hiking Boots: How to Choose the Right Pair and Care for Them You can view the full list here: Survival Guides for the Mountains
