Ground Conditions
Time: At the summit around 1030
Snow above: 950m
Route taken: PyG path
Next report: Tuesday 2-12-25
Conditions
The snow had thawed in most places on the mountain by today, but a few areas of significant snow were seen on the path above 950m. A few small patches of snow were seen on the path above 900m today, but at this height it was easy to avoid the snow, and it did not affect walking the path.
Above 950m on the PyG and miners' paths there was an area of more significant snow when approaching Bwlch Glas. It didn't cover the entire path, but a significant portion of the path was under snow, with only a narrow snow free margin in some places. As the snow here was soft, although a bit slippery underfoot, it was not a significant obstacle in and of itself. The combination of slippery snow, a narrow edge and strong wind combined to make it more challenging to travel this part of the route. Any re-freezing, additional snow or windy conditions could mean that this snow can continue to be an obstacle in this area, and that the development of any new snow or ice could turn this snow into a more significant obstacle very quickly (see Additional Information below).
Between Bwlch Glas and the summit only a few patches were seen, and the path was completely clear of snow along this section.
A windy and blustery day, with strong gusts, precipitation at times, and thunder for a period on the way down. Earlier in the morning it was raining and hailing, with longer periods of snow and sleet later in the morning. It was snowing at the end of the morning as low as 650m, with this snow although wet and thawing, starting to stick and gather in a few corners.
Essential equipment
Suitable seasonal walking equipment, including lighting (such as a head torch or two each).
Carrying an ice axe and some form of crampons will offer safer options when encountering snow and ice on the mountain.
Carrying snow goggles (such as ski goggles) will protect the eyes from cold winds and wind driven snow, making it easier to see in order to travel more safely on the mountain.
Additional Information
On the Friday of the report the forecast suggests that the temperature on the summit will drop below freezing, staying below freezing for most of the weekend. The temperature at the summit is forecast to be as low as -3ºC (feeling like it is as low as -13ºC at times).
With a forecast of precipitation for significant periods, and temperatures below freezing for most of the weekend, new snow developing on the mountain looks likely. Some snow looks likely by Saturday morning higher up on the mountain, with more significant snow possibly developing during Saturday into Sunday morning, lying more widely on the mountain by Sunday morning. This snow will be affected by significant winds at times.
As this new snow develops, periods of very poor visibility are possible. As snow covers the mountain and turns white it could become difficult or impossible to see in order to follow any paths on the mountain. Anyone who relies on seeing and following a path to find a way off the mountain could run into difficulties as these paths disappear in the snow.
By Monday, with temperatures above freezing and rain falling a period of significant thaw looks likely once more. Despite this there is a possibility for snow to develop higher on the mountain on Monday night and into Tuesday yet again.