Police have criticized tourists fixated on Instagram for abandoning numerous vehicles dangerously alongside snow-covered roads in Snowdonia as Storm Goretti wreaked havoc in the UK.
A large number of visitors rushed to the Welsh mountains in search of the perfect winter snapshot, disregarding clear warnings from the North Wales Police. Their actions led to cars being left stranded on icy roads, transforming picturesque locations into potential dangers.
Authorities expressed grave concerns over the hazardous parking situation, which endangered lives by forcing pedestrians into traffic and impeding emergency services in already perilous conditions. Despite repeated appeals advising against roadside stops, vehicles littered the snow-covered routes as crowds descended on the national park, now officially named Eryri. Police cautioned that cars left in precarious positions could be removed if deemed safe in the wintry weather.
Simultaneously, daring hikers were observed attempting to ascend Snowdon, despite warnings of avalanches issued by the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team.
These events unfolded amid the passage of Storm Goretti across the UK, bringing gale-force winds, snow, and floods. Tragically, a man in his 50s lost his life when a tree fell on his caravan in Cornwall, prompting emergency services to respond to the incident in the Mawgan area of Helston on Thursday evening. Efforts continued into Friday to safely clear the tree from the mobile home.
Inspector Jason Diamond of the North Wales Police condemned the irresponsible and disappointing behavior witnessed in Snowdonia over the weekend. He stressed the importance of exercising common sense despite the area’s exceptional beauty, particularly under the blanket of snow. Diamond noted that many drivers mindlessly followed others’ parking choices without considering the risks, emphasizing the strain on emergency services due to reckless actions aimed at capturing Instagram-worthy photos.
Diamond highlighted the danger posed by vehicles lining snow-covered roads, pushing other motorists into oncoming traffic and heightening the risk of serious accidents. While towing was an option, each removal had to be cautiously evaluated given the icy conditions.
Moreover, he underscored the challenges of expanding parking in a protected environment, emphasizing the complexity of constructing car parks within a national park.
Local leaders echoed these concerns, with Gwynedd Councillor Craig ab Iago urging visitors to plan ahead and show consideration for others amidst the picturesque winter landscapes. He called for responsible parking to prevent road blockages and assured collaboration with other authorities to maintain clear roads.
He cautioned that mountainous weather conditions could swiftly disrupt travel routes and public transport, advising individuals to monitor forecasts and travel updates before embarking on journeys.
Meanwhile, the UK braces for further snowfall and extensive flooding, with numerous areas still grappling with power outages in the aftermath of Storm Goretti. Yellow warnings for snow and ice are in effect until Sunday, and forecasters warn of potential flooding due to melting snow combined with heavy rainfall.