An urgent avalanche warning has been declared for Yr Wyddfa, also known as Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, as a powerful winter storm batters the region.
Storm Goretti Triggers Critical Warning
The alert was formally issued by the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) on Thursday, 8 January 2026. It comes in direct response to the arrival of Storm Goretti, a significant weather system bringing heavy snowfall and high winds to Snowdonia. This follows similar avalanche warnings already in place across parts of Scotland.
Unstable Snow Poses Severe Danger
Rescue authorities have identified areas of unstable snow accumulating on the mountain's slopes. These conditions significantly increase the risk of "serious falls" and "localised avalanches," putting any climbers or walkers in grave danger. The team emphasised that the situation is dynamic and hazardous, with the potential for rapid deterioration.
Heavy snow has already blanketed the Snowdonia National Park, transforming the landscape but creating treacherous underfoot conditions. The combination of new snowfall, existing snowpack, and strong winds from the storm is creating the perfect recipe for avalanche formation.
Public Urged to Exercise Extreme Caution
The primary message from mountain rescue is clear: the public must exercise extreme caution and seriously reconsider any plans to venture onto Snowdon or surrounding high routes. The avalanche warning applies to specific areas of the mountain where the snow is most unstable and prone to sliding.
This is a developing weather story, and conditions are expected to remain dangerous throughout the storm's passage. Hikers are strongly advised to monitor official forecasts and warnings from the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team and other relevant authorities before attempting any winter climbs in the region.
