Preparing for Gertrude

The trials of the North East Coast


Scotland isn’t renowned for its (good) weather. Everyone knows that. It’s not a matter of opinion it’s mere fact and it’s probably something we should have taken into greater account when deciding on coming to uni up here.

Coming from the north east, I thought I was pretty used to flooding and amber weather warnings, but St. Andrews really has something else to throw at you. Literally.

The weather on the NE coast is appalling

So there are a few tips for being prepared for the bipolar nature of Fife’s forecasts and although some of them are relatively obvious, hopefully they may provide you with necessary protection when next facing a Scottish hurricane.

Never EVER leave the house without some sort of waterproof.

Even if it appears to be a beautiful sunny day with clear skies and dry ground, IT’S NOT. Don’t be fooled, because you’ll end up looking like one. This is coming from oh-too-much experience.

Don’t get a Morrison’s umbrella

Morrison’s  umbrella game is pretty weak and most of the regular shop bought brollies I’ve had in the past have ended up with the same fateful end. The St. Andrews ones (without purposefully plunking in some product placement) actually seem to be pretty sturdy and, if all else fails, we live in a town famous for its Golf scene for gods sake.

Just go to a golf store and get yourself one of those industrial standard bad boys. I know it may be hard to bite the bullet and allow yourself to do this, especially in such a fashion conscious town, but comfort must always triumph over outfit choice when it comes to rain.

Such a standard occurrence

Practicality over fashion

Seriously, if you want to wear a leather jacket without a hood because it matches your cashmere sweater despite the fact that’s it’s blizzarding outside, you MUST have something wrong in the head.

Wear nice pants

Sometimes it does feel like our lives here are threatened on occasion by the sheer force of the winds which we are gifted with from the north. I can honestly say that I’ve seen some very small people who genuinely look as if they are about to be bowled over and unfortunately, the less life threatening yet more embarrassing evil of girls flashing their underwear.

Check the weather forecast

Finally, check the weather forecast before you leave the house. Even if it’s completely wrong, at least you’ll have a vague idea and can prepare for the very worst.