A man successfully climbed a picturesque frozen waterfall in a national park amid the ongoing cold Arctic weather in Britain. Mick Ellerton, aged 48, accomplished the climb at Gordale Scar, near Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales, after the plummeting temperatures caused the waterfall to freeze.
This remarkable achievement occurred just before an impending severe weather event, with Storm Goretti poised to bring heavy snow and 90mph winds on Thursday, prompting the Met Office to issue numerous weather warnings nationwide. The heavy snowfall already led to widespread school closures and isolated some remote communities in the north.
Mr. Ellerton praised the serene beauty of the Yorkshire Dales compared to more crowded tourist areas like the Peak District, describing it as “absolutely beautiful.” He mentioned that the frozen waterfall conditions rarely align for climbing, having done it only a few times in the past six years.
An experienced instructor at Lost Earth Adventures, Mr. Ellerton is also a volunteer for a cave rescue charity. Originally from Australia, he developed a passion for ice climbing in his youth and now resides in Skipton, North Yorkshire. He recently joined a fellow climber to conquer the frozen waterfall, emphasizing the importance of experience and caution in such endeavors.
Beyond the thrill of climbing, Mr. Ellerton highlighted how the activity enhances his rescue skills with the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association. He emphasized the importance of safety and proper equipment when venturing into the outdoors, encouraging people to explore the countryside responsibly.
As Storm Goretti approaches, the Met Office anticipates significant snow impacts in parts of Wales and the Midlands, warning of potential disruptions from rain and strong winds across the country.