Lake District: latest pressure

Monday

Weather

Outbreaks of rain and extensive hill fog during the morning, the rain heavy at times. Bright or sunny spells developing in the afternoon with a scattering of blustery showers. The showers possibly wintry over the highest summits.

Visibility

Moderate or poor at times during the morning, becoming mostly very good or excellent in the afternoon.

Hill fog

Occasional or widespread 300 to 600m during the morning, lifting and breaking in the afternoon.

Maximum winds above 500m

South 35 to 50mph during the morning, gusts 70mph over ridges and summits. Veering Southwest 25 to 35mph in the afternoon.

Temperature

Outlook

Tuesday

Mainly dry with some bright spells, but cloud probably rather extensive, particularly on south and southwest facing slopes with the risk of drizzle. Outbreak of rain possible late in the day. Strong to gale force south or southwest winds over the summits.

Wednesday

Bright or sunny spells and the risk of the odd shower. Thicker cloud and early morning rain possible. Moderate to fresh southwest winds over the summits.

Thursday

Mainly dry and bright during the morning. Thickening cloud and outbreaks of rain in the afternoon. Strengthening easterly winds.

FELLTOP CONDITIONS REPORT from Helvellyn at 1230pm on Saturday 20th March 2010. The thaw continues almost at all levels, it was zero degrees on the summit. Below 750m, snow and ice only exists on paths in sheltered spots and what remains is often avoidable. Above 750m the frequency of the snow patches and the snow depth increases with height to reach 60cm in drifts although the average depth is far less than this. Much of the snow is wet and loose; however above 900m there remains patches of old, harder snow, for example on the exit to Swirral Edge. The lower overnight temperatures had also covered some bare rocks at altitude in verglas (thin ice). The summit ridges are still covered by cornices that are weakening so please keep well back from the edge. Full winter clothing, footwear and equipment are essential for anyone venturing out onto the fells. An ice axe is essential for anyone going above the snowline and attempting or traversing steep ground; most people today only had walking poles and whilst these aid stability, they will not arrest a slip on frozen snow. Crampons should also be carried if going above 850m and in case the snow pack refreezes.Summit statistics at 1230pm, Temperature: minus 0.1C. Wind chill: minus 9.5C. Max wind speed: 29.0 mph. Average wind speed: 14.6 mph.