The Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team in Eryri (formerly Snowdonia) has raised alarm over the surge in tourism to the area and the growing number of hikers on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), which is putting significant strain on their operations. This volunteer-led team disclosed that they had an exceptionally busy summer, with nearly 250 call-outs, marking one of their busiest periods on record. As a result, the team has issued an urgent appeal for visitors to be properly equipped before embarking on mountain excursions in the region.
The volunteers, who are responsible for ensuring the safety of hikers in Eryri, emphasised the need for adequate preparedness among visitors venturing into the mountains. The team, reliant on public donations and comprised of unpaid individuals, highlighted the escalating rescue numbers year on year and the financial constraints they face. In a statement on their Facebook page, they stressed the critical need for hikers to acknowledge the challenges faced by the team, composed of a small group of volunteers striving to meet the increasing demands for rescue missions.
Addressing the escalating rescue incidents, the team attributed the rise to the influx of tourists into the area and the growing number of walkers on Yr Wyddfa. They underscored the importance of responsible hiking practices and offered guidance to visitors on supporting their efforts through personal accountability. Emphasising the significance of preparation, the team encouraged hikers to possess essential skills such as hill walking experience, navigation proficiency, and knowledge of necessary supplies to ensure safety while traversing Yr Wyddfa.
Chris Lloyd from the Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation had previously highlighted the impact of social media on the escalating rescue operations, citing the influence of platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Youtube on individuals attempting challenging hikes. The Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, a voluntary group offering vital life-saving assistance on Snowdon and surrounding mountains, operates round the clock, 365 days a year, relying solely on public contributions to sustain their rescue services.