Police warn of dangerous parking at Snowdonia amid avalanche risk

Police Criticize Tourists for Dangerous Parking in Snowdonia

Police have criticized tourists for “ridiculous parking” as they rush to take pictures of Snowdonia’s snowy peaks. Many visitors to Wales’ largest national park have ignored weather warnings and parked dangerously close to the mountain, despite icy road conditions and avalanche fears.

North Wales Police expressed disappointment over the disregard for weather warnings. Following Storm Goretti, Mount Snowdon, also known as Eryri, has been covered in snow, attracting many tourists eager to capture the winter scene for social media.

Urgent weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued across nearly the entire country as the aftermath of Storm Goretti continues to impact the UK. The south west coast has faced fierce gales and heavy rain, while parts of the Midlands, Wales, Scotland, and the north have seen significant snowfall.

Many people are dealing with the storm’s effects, including fallen trees damaging houses and cars, and treacherous road conditions. Despite these dangers, some have attempted to hike up the mountain for the perfect picture.

Earlier in the week, mountain rescue teams warned of “possible avalanches, particularly where paths run close to steep ground.” Many visitors have parked at the base of steep mountain sides, putting themselves and others at “serious” risk of injury.

Police stated that vehicles could be seized and towed away if parked unsafely. Inspector Jason Diamond from North Wales Police said, “We understand that the area is outstandingly beautiful – even more so with a blanket of snow, but common sense must still prevail.”

He added, “Leaving vehicles at edges of snow-lined carriageways increases the risk of coming back to a damaged vehicle and greatly increases the risk of serious personal injury.”

Local councillor Craig ab Iago from Cyngor Gwynedd urged visitors to check Met Office updates before visiting. He advised those going to popular spots like Pen y Pass to “park responsibly and not block the road for others,” and to consider using the Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus service.

He continued, “Because of the mountainous and rural nature of the area, visitors should remember that the weather can affect the roads, impacting public transport.”

On Thursday, Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team shared concerns about hikers being unprepared for harsh conditions on the mountain. They warned of dangerous conditions on Yr Wyddfa, where paths are “unrecognizable and buried under snow.”

The post stated, “Recent observations show areas of unstable snow, with cornices forming in several locations near the top of the mountain. These features can collapse without warning.”

On average, around eight people die in Snowdonia each year due to tough terrain and inexperienced hikers. Last year, a 20-year-old man’s body was recovered after he was reported missing, followed by two women found dead in Nant Gwynant valley.

With the UK experiencing its third day of Storm Goretti and the Met Office issuing yellow warnings for snow and ice, anyone visiting Mount Snowdon is urged to stay informed of weather updates to avoid putting themselves or others at risk.

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