North Wales Mountain Rescue teams urge caution after weekend incidents
Three North Wales mountain rescue teams have issued a joint warning to walkers after being called to two serious incidents in storm-force winds over the weekend.
Teams from Llanberis, Ogwen Valley and Aberglaslyn Mountain Rescue were called to separate rescues on Tryfan and Crib Goch, both involving people unprepared for the extreme conditions.
In both cases, volunteers faced severe weather, making rescue operations difficult and dangerous.
In a joint message, the teams said: “While we’ll always do our very best to reach and assist those in need, we want to be clear — if the weather is too dangerous, even mountain rescue may not be able to reach you quickly. In some situations, you could be waiting a long time before help can safely get to you.
“We also have to consider the safety of our own team members when responding in such conditions. If it’s unsafe for our volunteers to operate, we must wait until conditions improve before attempting a rescue.”
The teams said heading into the mountains in storm conditions is a personal decision, but one that carries serious responsibility.
Jurgen Dissmann, Chair of Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, said: “We understand the draw of the mountains, but there are times when conditions make even simple routes extremely hazardous. Storm-force winds, rain and poor visibility can turn an ordinary day into a serious situation very quickly. Please think carefully before setting out.”
Jamie Barclay, Chair of Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Team, added: “Mountain Rescue will always respond when we can, but we are not immune to the weather. If it’s too dangerous for us to reach you, you may have to wait hours before conditions improve. Preparation and good judgement can prevent avoidable incidents like these.”
Stu Meades, Chair of Aberglaslyn Mountain Rescue Team, said: “Our volunteers train and prepare for challenging conditions, but there are limits to what’s safe, even for us. Please respect the mountains and the weather — make good decisions and don’t put yourself or rescuers at unnecessary risk.”
The warning follows a weekend of severe weather across Snowdonia, where high winds and heavy rain made conditions particularly treacherous on exposed ridges.
The teams urged anyone heading into the mountains this autumn to check Met Office mountain forecasts, plan appropriately, and turn back if conditions deteriorate.
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