"Clag"

[ydt]

I would like to reinforce what has been said about holding the torch in your hand and that applies to mist, rain/snow or the vapour from your breath. Holding the torch low also shows shadows of objects on the ground, giving a good three dimensional sense of the terrain.
In scientific terms the problem arises from 'light scattering' by particles rather than reflection (as Bob hinted). The amounts of 'forward scatter' and 'back scatter' depend on the particle size. Particles larger than a few microns scatter most of the light backwards.

[Knightrunner]

another point to watch is distance, you can be fooled into thinking you are less or more progressed in your line of travel than you really are. You'll need to resort to counting steps and very close-worked navigation in order to stay in track , unless you are very familiar with the area or are using GPS. Night plus serious clag is almost like having your eyes closed.

[Derby Tup]

I'd suggest you've been lucky if this was the first time you've been out in claggy conditions. There's every chance of poor weather and bad visibility on your round even if the forecast is good. Go and practice being out in all condition is my advice

[wheezing donkey]

For those that are not aware - I guess that many are - CLAG is Fleet Air Arm / Royal Navy Air Station jingo for Cloud Low, Aircraft Grounded.

[Mike T]

For those that are not aware - I guess that many are - CLAG is Fleet Air Arm / Royal Navy Air Station jingo for Cloud Low, Aircraft Grounded.

It is also the name of an Australian brand of glue for paper that is the same colour as - er - clag.

[philblack40]

Thanks to all again for your advice. I have been up in the clouds before (and coped ok) but never in the dark before. Cloud low aircraft grounded! Love it. Thanks for your help guys cheers phil

[Bob]

For those that are not aware - I guess that many are - CLAG is Fleet Air Arm / Royal Navy Air Station jingo for Cloud Low, Aircraft Grounded.

Sounds like a Backronym to me :-)

[Bob]

For those that are not aware - I guess that many are - CLAG is Fleet Air Arm / Royal Navy Air Station jingo for Cloud Low, Aircraft Grounded.

Sounds like a Backronym to me :-)

Its origins come from old Norse (as do many "northern" words, like "fell") and as far as I'm aware, the Vikings didn't have planes!!

[Martyn P]

Sounds like a Backronym to me :-)

Its origins come from old Norse (as do many "northern" words, like "fell") and as far as I'm aware, the Vikings didn't have planes!!

I dunno Bob. It's in here, so it must be true :

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Jackspeak-Gu.../dp/0951430521

[Stolly]

I too think clag is an RAF term. The norse word clag means mud or something like that and is nothing to do with low cloud or hill fog. Claggy to a viking means muddy