March 28, 2018 - 1431 views
As clocks have turned, daylight increases and spring begins to show its colours, MountainSafe is encouraging all walkers to check the weather forecast before setting off to the mountains this Easter.
More often than not, the weather on the mountains is completely different to the weather in the lowlands. On average, the temperature drops about 1-3 ?C for each 300m that is climbed, therefore, whilst it’s 7 ?C in Llanberis, it can be -3 ?C on the top of Snowdon. Therefore, this Easter, MountainSafe is encouraging walkers to check weather forecasts which are aimed specifically at walkers.
Carwyn ap Myrddin, the National Park Warden on Snowdon said,
“We want everyone who comes here to enjoy the experience of walking in the mountains of Snowdonia. Therefore it’s essential to check weather forecasts which are specifically aimed at walkers, in order to decide if the weather is suitable for hill-walking and to pack the right gear for the forecasted conditions. Specifically:
Snow – very often snow remains on the mountains until the end of April, and when there’s snow on the footpaths, you will need the correct equipment, including an ice axe and crampons.
Wind speed – you’ll need to check wind speed in advance as walking in high winds (or gusting wind) is very difficult and can be incredibly tiring.
Rain - Even if the weather looks favourable, you need a coat, waterproof trousers, and good walking shoes. Wet clothes will very quickly make you much colder and rain can make paths very slippery underfoot.
Sun - strong sun leads to sunburn and dehydration, so you’ll need sunscreen, a sun hat and plenty of water.
In order to try and reduce the number of callouts made to Mountain Rescue Teams in North Wales over the Easter holiday, I would encourage people to make their good day in the mountains better by following the MountainSafe and Adventure Smart Wales’ advice, so that all those venturing into the mountains of Snowdonia over the holiday period will remember their day for the all the right reasons."
For more detailed advice on safety in the mountains, visit www.mountainsafe.co.uk and www.AdventureSmartWales.com
