This week the annual and longstanding Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) winter ground condition report service will commence, thanks to a scheme coordinated and funded by the National Park Authority’s Warden Service.
Now we’re well into November the shorter days and unpredictable weather will draw many walkers to explore the lower areas of Eryri (Snowdonia). But for others, the arrival of winter conditions on our mountains is a welcome sight. Although the snow-capped mountains can look beautiful and inviting, without the proper equipment and experience even the thinnest layer of snow or ice can turn a relatively straight-forward section of path into a challenging feat.
To help walkers make an informed decision before venturing out on the mountain in winter the Park Authority has commissioned a local company to undertake the work of providing regular and detailed reports about the ground conditions on Yr Wyddfa throughout the winter months.
Throughout the winter, Stephen Jones of Anelu Aim Higher will climb Yr Wyddfa twice a week to carry out an assessment of the conditions underfoot and upload a report on a dedicated page on the Park Authority’s website. The information provided includes details about snow and ice levels, any snow flurries and condition of ice, as well as general advice on the equipment required.
The provision of accessible and up-to-date information can prevent wasted trips to climb Yr Wyddfa as people from all over the country can plan their visit at a time when the conditions are right for them and suits their skill and experience level.
Rhys Wheldon-Roberts, the Park Authority’s Senior Warden for the north of the National Park said:
“While ground conditions on the lower slopes of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) can be relatively manageable in winter, conditions can change quickly and drastically as you climb the mountain, often requiring specialist equipment such as an ice axe and crampons which is why this is such a valuable resource, especially when conditions such as ice are not visible to the eye from the foothills.”
Stephen Jones of Anelu Aim Higher said:
“With the weather turning more wintry, thorough planning and preparation beforehand is required if you intend to walk the slopes of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). The reports and information provided gives a snapshot of the ground conditions and adds to your knowledge bank before venturing out to walk the mountains.”
Assessments will be undertaken twice weekly with the route taken varying. All the information will be uploaded on to a dedicated page on the National Park Authority’s website Eryri – Snowdonia (gov.wales) as well as being posted on Twitter. For practical advice on how to prepare for a good and safe day out on the mountain in winter visit the Adventure Smart website AdventureSmartUK | Be Adventure Smart: make your good day better
Notes to Editors
- Assessments will take place throughout the winter until March/April when the likelihood of wintry conditions on the mountains has lessened.
- As well as publishing the report on the Authority’s website, notifications will be published on the Eryri Warden Report Twitter account @snowdonweather
- For more information or to arrange an interview contact Gwen Aeron Edwards, Communications Officer for Planning and Land Management on gwen.aeron@eryri.llyw.cymru