**Tragedy Strikes at Popular Welsh Walking Route as Two Women Lose Their Lives**
A tragic incident has occurred at one of Wales’ most iconic beauty spots, as two women have lost their lives following an emergency at the pools along the Watkin Path on Yr Wyddfa, also known as Snowdon. The event has cast a sombre shadow over the renowned landscape, sparking an outpouring of grief and reflection about the potential dangers the mountain environment can pose, even to experienced walkers.
Emergency services were notified late Wednesday evening, around 9:30pm on 11 June, after receiving reports that one individual had been rescued from the water on the Watkin Path in Eryri National Park, Gwynedd. At the time, it was believed that a second woman remained in the pools, prompting an immediate mobilisation of rescue resources.
A significant rescue operation was swiftly deployed, involving units from Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, the Air Ambulance, North Wales Police, and the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter. Despite determined efforts by all involved, both women were sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the victims, as formal investigations and family notifications continue.
North Wales Police released a statement shortly after the incident, outlining the rapid response that took place. “Police were called at 9.31pm following a report that one female had been pulled from the water, and another was still in the water at the pools on the Watkin Path,” a spokesperson stated. Rescue teams worked under challenging conditions into the night, highlighting the risks faced not only by those enjoying the wild spaces but also by the dedicated volunteers and professionals who come to their aid.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Gibson from North Wales Police extended condolences to the families and friends affected by the tragedy. “Our thoughts and sympathies remain with the families and friends of both women. An investigation to establish the circumstances is now underway,” he reported. Authorities are now appealing to members of the public who may have been in the Watkin Path area between 6pm and 9pm on the night of the incident to come forward with any information that might shed further light on the sequence of events.
The office of the Coroner for North Wales has been informed and will be overseeing the inquiry into the deaths. Such incidents, although rare, serve as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of mountainous terrain, even in areas popular with walkers and tourists.
The Watkin Path itself is recognised as one of the most challenging routes to the summit of Yr Wyddfa. It is well known for its steep inclines and sections that require careful navigation over loose scree and rugged ground. The national park authority categorises it as ‘hard/strenuous’, and cautions all walkers—particularly those unfamiliar with the area or without sufficient experience—to treat the environment with the utmost respect. The path’s descriptions emphasise the need for full hill-walking gear and, in winter, additional specialist equipment.
Eryri National Park continues to attract thousands of visitors annually, many drawn by the dramatic scenery and the challenge of walking to the summit. However, this incident underlines that conditions can change rapidly, and even on summer days, mountain pools and rivers can pose severe hazards. Cold water temperatures, strong undercurrents, and slippery rocks can quickly turn a moment of leisure into a life-threatening situation.
As the community absorbs the news, mountain rescue leaders and local authorities are urging anyone planning adventures in the upland regions to take extra care, check weather and route conditions, and ensure they are adequately prepared for any eventuality.
In conclusion, this deeply upsetting event has served as a harsh reminder of the respect demanded by Wales’ wild spaces. While the beauty of Eryri remains undiminished, the tragic loss of life will resonate with all those who cherish Wales’s national treasures and wish to keep them safe for generations to come.