Avalanche warning issued for UK tourism hotspot as snow collapse 'without warning' feared

An avalanche warning has been issued at a popular tourist hotpsot in the UK amid fears of "serious falls" and "localised avalanches". Areas of unstable snow have been identified on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), prompting mountain rescue volunteers to urge the public to think carefully before heading into the area as dangerous winter conditions grip the region. The alert was issued by Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) ahead of the arrival of Storm Goretti, which is forecast to bring further heavy snow, strong winds and rapidly changing conditions to high ground across Wales.

Llanberis MRT said many well-known walking routes are now buried beneath snow, with higher sections of the popular Llanberis Path described as "particularly dangerous". Upper stretches of other routes, including the Pyg Track, were also found to be unstable. In a detailed alert, the team warned: "Recent observations show areas of unstable snow, with cornices forming in several locations near the top of the mountain.

"These overhanging snow features can be difficult to spot, especially in poor visibility, and may collapse without warning. In certain circumstances, this could lead to serious falls or trigger localised avalanches, particularly where paths run close to steep ground."

Although fresh snowfall can appear inviting, rescue teams stressed that winter conditions in Eryri (Snowdonia) can be extremely hazardous without the right skills and equipment.

Volunteer Elfyn Jones said navigating the mountain safely requires experience, strong navigation skills and an understanding of how snow behaves, adding that suitable winter equipment is essential.

"As you can see, many paths are now unrecognisable and buried under snow," he said, as reported by North Wales Live. "Conditions are changing quickly, and the higher sections of the Llanberis Path and the railway are particularly dangerous.

"The snow is compacted and icy, meaning crampons and an ice axe are essential. Large banks of snow alongside the railway can be hard to judge and could lead to serious falls."

While some experienced mountaineers have taken advantage of the snowfall to ski in parts of the national park, officials warned that avalanches are an annual occurrence on Welsh mountains and the risks are expected to increase as Storm Goretti brings further snowfall.

Anyone planning a trip into the mountains is urged to check weather forecasts, assess conditions carefully and be prepared to turn back if necessary.

"Being flexible with plans and knowing when to retreat can make a big difference," Elfyn added.