Rescuers warn walkers after an avalanche in Snowdonia

The scene of another avalanche in Snowdonia on Thursday

A rescue team is warning of avalanches after about 500 tonnes of snow slid down a mountain side in Snowdonia.

Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue was also called to Aber Falls on Wednesday night after two walkers found a head torch in water in the area of another avalanche.

Thirty rescuers and three search dogs attended the scene, but after hunting for three hours they found nothing.

The Ogwen Valley team warned that unstable snow was a problem and urged caution from visitors.

Spokesman Chris Lloyd said Aber Falls were partially frozen and people would be visiting the area, but he urged them to take care.

"The avalanche was in an area popular with walkers and easily accessible," he added.

'False alarm'

"Two walkers saw a head torch in water at Aber Falls and on seeing avalanche debris they contacted the police.

"We probed the avalanche about three metres and deeper and found nothing. We then checked the slope above, which was risky in deep, loose snow.

"But we believe no-one is missing and it was a false alarm, although well intended."

Mr Lloyd urged caution especially as the snow was starting to thaw.

The avalanche on Thursday happened above Llanberis.

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