WALKERS and climbers are being urged to stay away from Snowdonia’s snowy peaks

Snowdonia National Park Authority Wardens are asking mountaineers to stay off the slopes of Snowdon and other peaks in Snowdonia while the snowy conditions continue.

The recent spell of snow showers means conditions on the mountain are now "extreme". The first layer of snow is frozen and compacted. With the accumulation of fresh snow, there is a high likelihood of avalanches.

For those unfamiliar with the mountain the paths are very difficult to navigate, and one wrong step could prove fatal. If walkers are not wearing appropriate clothing that can withstand such cold and harsh conditions, hypothermia is an additional threat.

Adam Daniel, the Snowdonia National Park Authority’s Head of Wardens Service, said: "Although Snowdonia’s snow-covered mountains are very pretty to look at, conditions on the ground itself is extremely dangerous. We kindly ask those who are thinking about going out in these conditions to seriously consider if they are willing to put their own lives and others’ at risk.”

North Wales Chronicle:

Snowdonia in Winter, Snowdon Summit and Snowdonia in Winter

Over the past few days the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team have been called out several times to rescue walkers who have found themselves in difficulties on Snowdon.

Team members are volunteers who risk their own lives every time they go out on a rescue mission.

George Jones, Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team Secretary, said: “As a team of volunteers we have faced very challenging conditions over the past few days on rescue missions on Snowdon. Unstable snow drifts means that call-outs are complex and challenging. More snow is forecast and we kindly ask you not to venture out on the mountain until conditions have improved.”

North Wales Chronicle:

Looking down the Ogwen Valley towards Tryfan across Llyn Ogwen in Snowdonia, North Wales

The National Park Authority provides a ground condition monitoring service on Snowdon.

Visit @snowdonweather on Twitter or information is available on the Mountain Weather section of the Met Office website.

Once conditions have improved, anyone who ventures onto the hills must have the appropriate experience and skills and all the necessary equipment.