Lake District

Ground conditions

Date Monday 23 February. Location Helvellyn summit at 10:20. Temperature plus 1.4degC.Maximum wind speed 43.3mph. Wind chill minus 8.5degC. Average wind speed 39.5mphFull report: Thawing & Wet Conditions The disappointing thaw of good recent snow conditions continues across the Lakeland fells following the weekend. Little to no snow now remains below 800m, with Sunday's overnight rain continuing intermittently into Monday morning and accelerating the melt. While it is disheartening to see the fells stripped of what had been excellent winter conditions one offset was the becks, gills and streams running full. Current forecasts suggest the thawing pattern will persist through the week, with freezing levels remaining above the summits. On Helvellyn summit plateau, extensive areas of wet, saturated snow remain to be crossed, interspersed with increasingly large patches of exposed ground. Rock surfaces are thoroughly wet, with no firm ice bonded to them. The only ice encountered was along Swirral Edge and likely also on Striding Edge where well-trodden lines of compacted snow have hardened. These sections are broken by rocky or gravel stretches, with ice often lining the margins. The final 100m of ascent to the summit contains the most sustained snow and ice. Micro spikes were necessary in several places. Although sections of snow or ice rarely exceed about 5m in length, a slip on this terrain could have severe consequences dropping over cliffs. An ice axe for balance or step-cutting would be advantageous if not a walking pole is recommended. One notable winter feature that persists especially on north-facing aspects is the presence of cornices. These overhanging snow formations are now heavily saturated, visibly sagging, and should be given a wide berth despite their attractiveness. They are not weight-bearing and can fracture unexpectedly, often well back from the true cliff edge. Visibility remains poor under mild, cloudy conditions, making accurate navigation essential to avoid disorientation. Reliance on a mobile phone alone presents additional challenges: wet screens, automatic screen lock/time-out, and reduced battery performance in cold, damp conditions. A waterproof case or at least a sealed plastic bag is strongly advised. Despite the limited remaining snow cover, hazards persist on the high fells. Strong winds produce wind-chill values that feel well below freezing so dress for winter conditions and take emergency kit if you have to halt for any reason. This is an automated email. If you need a response please email [email protected]