Scottish Midges

# Scotland Midge Forecast

7-day midge activity predictions for 14 Scottish regions, powered by real-time weather data. Select a region and date to plan your trip.

## 7-Day Regional Forecast

Very Low
Low
Moderate
High
Very High

## Loch Lomond

Trossachs & Stirling

3.6
High

Significant midge activity expected. Use repellent and consider a head net for extended outdoor activities.

### Weather Conditions

Temperature 12.9°C
Wind Speed 5.3 mph
Humidity 88%
Cloud Cover 100%
Rainfall 3.6 mm

### Tips

- Apply repellent before going outdoors.
- Wear long sleeves and light-coloured clothing.
- Consider a midge head net for extended outdoor activities.
- Avoid sheltered spots near water at dawn and dusk.

## Midge Protection Essentials

Heading outdoors in Scotland from May to September? These are the essentials we recommend packing.

Smidge Insect Repellent
DEET-free midge repellent, 75ml. The go-to for Scottish outdoors.
Buy on Amazon
Smidge Head Net
Lightweight mesh head net. Essential when midges get out of hand.
Buy on Amazon
Tick Removing Card
Compact tick remover - handy on any Scottish walk or hike.
Buy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This does not affect the price you pay.

## All Regions at a Glance

## How Our Midge Forecast Works

Our forecast analyses real-time weather data from the Open-Meteo forecast service to predict midge activity across 14 Scottish regions. Data is refreshed hourly so you always have up-to-date predictions for the week ahead.

### What We Measure

Five weather factors are scored and weighted based on their influence on midge behaviour:

- Wind speed (heaviest weighting) — midges cannot fly in winds above about 6 mph, making this the single best predictor of midge activity.
- Temperature — midges are most active between 12–20°C. Below 10°C or above 25°C, activity drops sharply.
- Humidity — high humidity (above 70%) creates ideal conditions; dry air suppresses activity.
- Cloud cover — overcast skies favour midges; bright sunshine reduces activity.
- Rainfall — light rain keeps conditions damp and humid, but heavy downpours temporarily suppress midges.

These factors are combined with a seasonal modifier (midges are dormant outside late May–September) and converted into a 1–5 risk scale.

### Understanding the Risk Levels

- 1 — Very Low: No precautions needed. Midges unlikely to be noticeable.
- 2 — Low: Minor activity possible at dawn and dusk. Most people won’t be bothered.
- 3 — Moderate: Noticeable midge presence, especially in sheltered spots. Repellent recommended.
- 4 — High: Significant midge activity. Repellent and long sleeves strongly advised.
- 5 — Very High: Severe conditions. Head nets and full precautions essential for comfort outdoors.

For a complete guide to midge biology, repellent recommendations, and tips for planning around midge season, see our in-depth guide to midges in Scotland.

## Forecast FAQ

How accurate is this midge forecast?

Our forecast is based on the weather conditions known to drive midge activity — wind, temperature, humidity, cloud cover, and rain. It provides a reliable indication of likely midge levels, but local conditions can vary (a sheltered glen may have worse midges than an exposed hillside in the same region). Use the forecast as a planning guide alongside your own observations on the ground.

How often is the data updated?

Weather data is refreshed hourly from the Open-Meteo forecast service. The 7-day forecast updates automatically, so the predictions for later days become more accurate as those days approach.

Why does my region show “Very Low” in winter?

Highland midges are only active from roughly late May to September. Outside this window, the seasonal modifier reduces all scores to 1 (Very Low) regardless of weather conditions, because midges are dormant during the colder months.

Can I use this forecast to plan a trip?

Yes — check the 7-day forecast for your destination before travelling. If you’re flexible on location, compare regions to find lower-risk areas. East coast and island regions typically score lower than the west Highlands. For detailed trip-planning advice around midge season, see our complete midge guide.

## Planning a Trip to Scotland?

Check out our detailed guide to Scottish midges, or explore free travel itineraries to make the most of your visit.

Scottish Midges Guide Free Itineraries