Fell Top Conditions on Friday 13 December

Readings from Helvellyn summit at 13:35

Temperature minus 0.1°C Maximum wind speed 30.5mph Wind chill minus 9.1°C Average wind speed 23.8mph Wind direction WSW

Fresh snow has settled above 600m adding to existing accumulations. All the recent snow has been deposited on (often strong) S to SW to W winds, so although the snow depth rises with height, there is, as ever, a wide variety of coverage from little or nothing on windswept areas (such as large parts of the summit plateau) to drifts of up to 50cm on east and north facing slopes above 900m, although such depth is exceptional. The snowpack is soft and wet. With a summit temperature of zero, there was a daytime thaw at virtually all levels bar the highest peaks; this was especially rapid below 750m.

Both Striding and Swirral Edges were covered in soft, wet snow with a bank of steep, deep unavoidable snow guarding Swirral’s exit. An ice axe is essential for anyone attempting such exposed routes above the snowline and crampons should be carried in case the snow freezes.

The rocks on the summit plateau were again covered in ice. Should the freezing level drop, walkers out on Saturday should be prepared to encounter ice at lower levels as well.

Small cornices are forming over N and E facing slopes, so please advise those with less experience to keep well clear of such edges.

With the summit windchill well below freezing, full winter clothing (waterproofs, warm layers, hat & gloves), footwear and equipment are all essential for anyone venturing out onto the fells. Given the intermittent hail today, goggles are also highly recommended. As ground features disappear under the snow, a map and compass and the ability to use them in poor visibility are also essential.

Climbers – unfortunately the snow is currently soft and wet so damage will be done to fragile upland environments should any climbs be attempted in their current condition.